Review:

▶️ Have you written a handwritten letter to anyone lately? If you get a chance to write letters to one person, who that person would be?

“There is always a route and some paths where a person can contribute, And it is not mandatory that all contributions come with financial benefits.”

From the book My Letters to Feather by Diwakar Shrivastava.

Some books are like a fresh wave, giving us much-needed reminders, and telling us stories that give us a different perspective. They make us pause and reflect on the decisions we take and the life we live. This is one such book. My book 106 of 2023 is a heartwarming read that gives warmth on a rainy day.

“My Letters to Feather” by Diwakar Shrivastava is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that explores the power of love, the complexities of relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a collection of 31 captivating letters where the narrator discusses various aspects of life. The book follows the journey of an unnamed narrator who writes letters to his beloved Feather. Feather, the love of his life whom he couldn’t meet. A love story that went wrong.

Through the letters, the narrator pours out their deepest thoughts, emotions, and regrets. Each letter serves as a chapter, delving into different aspects of life. Within these letters, the narrator shares experiences from his childhood, the traumas he faced, his heartfelt confessions, the emotions he felt upon their first encounter, their deep connection, and their subsequent separation. All the while, he addresses Feather’s queries and the situations she finds herself in. 

Also Read: The Unlove Letter by Abhik Roy – A Captivating Tale of Love and Intrigue – Book Review

These letters are collective experiences which resonate with each of us. Be it assuming situations or things or be it accepting and embracing destiny, Diwakar here shares the most important life lessons here. Each letter here is no less than an enchanting story,  a journey our narrator went on. One could connect to his journey, his experiences and the challenging situations he endured within his family and among the people around him—individuals who never truly accepted him. From the essence of love to living a purposeful life, and from contemplating our choices to how sometimes we all need a listener, this book urges us to reflect.

The narrative is both enthralling and heartwarming. Diwakar vividly describes the natural surroundings that serve as the perfect backdrop for our narrator’s story in a small town. As you read slowly and absorb each word, you cannot help but feel the narrator’s pain. The book delves into the meaning of love, living a purposeful life, and the importance of the choices we make—ultimately encouraging us to fly. 

While reading these letters, you’ll find yourself smiling as the narrator addresses Feather and expresses what she means to him. Simultaneously, he reveals their love story and the circumstances that led to their separation. He talks about Night, who protected him, he talks about Lyssa and their love. How life keeps on going, and writing letters to Feather brings him happiness.

This book takes you on an emotional roller-coaster ride. Diwakar Shrivastava’s writing style is gripping and evocative, skillfully capturing the narrator’s emotions and creating a strong connection between the reader and the characters. Each letter has a story, some letters offer answers to situations we might find ourselves in.  He weaves the story with layers of friendship, love, loss, trauma, nostalgia, longing, difficult family dynamics and life altogether.

With every letter, we gain a deeper understanding of Feather and witness the narrator’s unwavering determination to change the situation for his mother. We feel his guilt, his pain, his love for Night, his adoration for Feather, and how love always finds a way. The significant roles played by the women in his life become apparent, shaping the man he has become today. It’s a slow and a bit heavy read, surrounding many events and serious situations. The tone and theme of the book is emotionally intense.

Through letters, Diwakar masterfully develops each character. Whether it’s our narrator, Feather, Night, or Lyssa, we are able to connect with and understand each one. They all add depth and richness to the overall story. Night’s story startled me while I love Lyssa’s presence in our narrator’s life. The last two letters provide a surprising twist, adding an element of intrigue and leaving a lasting impact on readers. It adds an unexpected layer and a touch of dramatic flair making it no less than a Bollywood story.

In all, My Letters to Feather is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that captures the complexities of love, relationships, and the human experience. Diwakar Shrivastava’s skillful storytelling and the intimate format of letters create a deep connection with the characters and their journey. It is a book that will resonate with readers who appreciate deep introspection and the exploration of complex emotions.

 Get your Book Reviewed by Vidhya Thakkar – Connect us Now