book reviews
Reviews of books that explore the complexities of family throughout history and across cultures.
The Triumph of Self-Belief..
In a small village nestled at the edge of the countryside, there lived a young boy named Sohan. His family was poor, and their humble house stood on the outskirts of the village. From a young age, Sohan understood that if he wanted to achieve something in life, he would have to work hard. Despite his circumstances, he held onto a single dream: to show the world that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference.Growing up, Sohan wasn’t an outgoing child. He was quiet and reserved, preferring the company of books to the bustling noise of the playground. School was a challenge for him. He often struggled to keep up with his peers, and many of his teachers would quietly doubt his potential. They would say things like, “People like you don’t become successful. You're just too ordinary.”These words, however, did not deter Sohan. He knew that success wasn't defined by the family you were born into or the circumstances you faced. It was about believing in yourself and pushing forward no matter how hard the road seemed. He started to make a promise to himself every day: he would never give up. Even though he wasn't the best student, he made sure he gave his best effort every single time. He spent long nights studying by the dim light of a lantern while the rest of the village slept.One day, when Sohan was in his final year of school, the principal of the village school made an announcement that a well-known businessman, Mr. Karim, would be visiting the village to attend a local event. Sohan, who had heard of Mr. Karim's success, was both nervous and excited. This was an opportunity to prove to himself, if no one else, that he could do something remarkable.However, Sohan had doubts. He had always been told that people from his background could never achieve anything significant. The fear of rejection haunted him. Still, there was something deep inside him urging him to take that chance. He decided to attend the event and, if possible, speak to Mr. Karim. He didn’t know exactly how, but he would find a way to make an impression.The day of the event arrived. Sohan donned his best clothes, which weren’t much, but they were the best he had. He stood at the back of the crowd, feeling out of place among the well-dressed people. Mr. Karim, a man known for his achievements, was giving a speech about entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the importance of self-belief.Sohan listened intently, his heart racing. The more he heard, the more inspired he felt. As Mr. Karim finished his speech, Sohan’s hand shot up. “Excuse me, sir,” he called out nervously.Mr. Karim paused, noticing the shy boy at the back. “Yes, young man, what’s your question?”Sohan stood up, his voice trembling slightly, but with a determination that he hadn’t known he had before. “Sir, I come from a poor family, and I’ve always been told that people like me can never achieve great things. But I believe that if I work hard enough, I can prove them wrong. How can I make something of myself?”The room fell silent. Mr. Karim looked at Sohan with a mixture of surprise and admiration. After a brief pause, he smiled and said, “Your question shows more about you than you realize. It shows that you have the courage to believe in yourself, and that is the first step toward success. Keep believing, keep working hard, and the opportunities will come to you.”Sohan felt a wave of relief wash over him. Mr. Karim’s words were simple, but they meant everything. The realization that success wasn’t about where you came from, but how much you were willing to give, struck him like a thunderbolt.The event concluded, and as people began to leave, Sohan approached Mr. Karim. He introduced himself again and thanked him for his kind words. Mr. Karim, who had been struck by Sohan’s determination, saw potential in him. “Come to my office tomorrow,” he said. “I’ll offer you an internship. It’s a small start, but everyone has to start somewhere.”For the first time in his life, Sohan felt the weight of his dreams starting to lift. He couldn’t believe it. This was the break he had been waiting for.Sohan worked hard during his internship. He showed up early, stayed late, and never stopped learning. He asked questions, offered suggestions, and did whatever was asked of him. Slowly but surely, he started gaining respect from his colleagues. His dedication didn’t go unnoticed.Months passed, and Mr. Karim noticed Sohan’s growth. He saw that the young boy wasn’t just working for a paycheck; he was working with passion, purpose, and a belief that he could make a difference. One day, Mr. Karim called him into his office.“You’ve done well, Sohan,” he said. “I’ve seen you grow. I’ve seen your commitment and your drive. It’s time to give you more responsibility.”That moment marked the beginning of Sohan’s professional career. Over the next few years, Sohan became an invaluable member of the company. He continued to rise through the ranks, driven not by the fear of failure, but by his unshakable belief that he could succeed. Eventually, Sohan started his own business, using the lessons he had learned and the network he had built.Years later, Sohan returned to his village, not as the quiet, uncertain boy who had once doubted himself, but as a successful businessman. He had achieved his dreams, but more importantly, he had learned the power of self-belief.Sohan didn’t forget where he came from. He returned to the village to give back, setting up a scholarship fund to help young students who, like him, were told that their dreams were out of reach. He spoke at schools, sharing his story, and telling.. students that success is not about the circumstances you are born into, but the choices you make and the effort you put in.Sohan’s story became an inspiration, not just in his village, but to everyone who heard it. He was living proof that hard work, perseverance, and belief in yourself could break through any obstacle, no matter how big.And as he stood under the same tree where he had once sat as a boy, dreaming of a better future, he smiled. The dream had not only been his; it had become a dream for others too...
By Sumaiya’s Wordbox10 months ago in Families
Behind the Smile: The Secret Life of a Trusted Stranger. Content Warning.
n a quiet neighborhood, there lived an old man named Mr. Rehman. He was kind, polite, and always smiling. Everyone called him “Uncle Rehman.” He used to be a librarian, and even after retirement, he still gave books to children. Every week, he would visit homes and gift a book to each child.
By Majeed Ullah10 months ago in Families
One Day Ends, Love Begins
There are moments in life when the end of something marks the beginning of something even more beautiful. Sometimes, all it takes is the closing of one chapter for the heart to open to a new one. This is the story of a day that ended—not just in time, but in emotion, in familiarity, and in comfort—and how in that very ending, love quietly took its first breath.
By Niranjon Chandra Roy10 months ago in Families
When All Doors Closed: A True Story of Faith, Patience, and Divine Help #1
In a quiet village near Kharian, Pakistan, lived a simple man named Haji Imran. He was not a scholar or a wealthy businessman—just a humble fruit vendor known for his honesty, soft voice, and regular presence at the local masjid. What made him stand out in his community was his deep and unwavering reliance on Allah.
By Md Johirul Islam10 months ago in Families
The Hands That Never Rested
In a quiet town near the hills, lived a woman named Asha. She was a mother of three—two boys and a girl. Her home was small, her clothes were simple, and her hands were always busy. But her heart? It was huge—filled with endless love for her children.
By Nihal Khan11 months ago in Families
"The Empire Beneath the Crown"
Where Power Reigns, and Shadows Remember I. The Golden Throne King Tharion the Lionheart ruled the Empire of Solara for thirty years. Under his reign, the empire expanded across seas and deserts, swallowing cities and cultures with the swiftness of fire. His banners flew over distant lands, and his name was carved into mountains. To the world, Tharion was a living legend—a warrior turned monarch, a king who forged peace through conquest.
By Arifullah Khan11 months ago in Families
Why the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu Is Perfect for Thrill Seekers
Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic destinations. While many travelers opt for the classic Inca Trail to reach the ancient citadel, thrill seekers looking for an adrenaline-fueled alternative should set their sights on the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu. This action-packed route combines hiking, biking, ziplining, and even river rafting, offering adventure lovers a truly unforgettable experience through the Peruvian Andes and lush Amazon rainforest.
By Luan travel Peru11 months ago in Families
