Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Saturday, March 21, 2009

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

The first time I read about the Holocaust was in Erich Segal's 'Doctors'. For many other reasons I re-read the book several times but was shaken and intrigued by the causes and consequences of the Holocaust. I then watched the brilliant 'Schindler's List' which led me to read 'Schindler's Ark', the book the movie was based on. The book and the movie are epics and have left a lasting impression on me. Though based on the same theme, I didn't expect John Boyne's 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' to make such an impact. More so because of its length - 215 pages. How wrong I was.
The book talks about nine year old Bruno's amazing and rare friendship with Shmuel, the boy in the striped pyjamas living across the fence behind his new home. The story of the Holocaust is told through the eyes of Bruno, who cannot comprehend why he is not allowed to play with the hordes of children living on the other side of the sky-high fence. Through the events he witnesses, the horrors of the Holocaust are subtly but expertly explained by the author. The book is so short and crisp that any more details I spill can reveal the entire story. The writing is very simple. A thorough page turner, the book leaves you with a chilling effect once you finish reading. I read the entire book at one sitting late into the night and regret doing that because it left me sleepless. I know that the feeling will linger many more days. It is a poignant and memorable story, one that you would have never read before. Published by Black Swan and priced at Rs.360, it is available at Landmark and Crossword.
I highly recommend the book. It is worth every dime and your time. I am off to look for more by John Boyne.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Moon


The moon was at its romantic best on Holi, one day before the full moon day. What an amazing sight.. I am proud of my mobile :) Paisa Vasool!!

Spring Is Here!!

I love winter, but spring offers an unmatched visual treat. Though Bangalore is not as beautiful as it used to be when we were kids, we still get to see some amazing sights. Take a minute to savor the delightful hues of pink, yellow, lilac and green that color the skyline of the city now. Here are some lovely sights captured in and around South Bangalore...












Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Siesta


I caught this cute little butterfly enjoying its siesta on a hot and sunny day. We were lunching at the new South Indies branch on Infantry road. He was on the wall right behind our table. All the noise and talking didn't seem to disturb him at all! He sat still throughout my attempts to get a macro shot from my mobile camera.