Review:

Are you fond of reading the Bhagavad Gita? Do you have a favourite teaching from it?

यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जन: | स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते || Gita 3.21||
yad yad ācharati śhreṣhṭhas tat tad evetaro janaḥ sa yat pramāṇaṁ kurute lokas tad anuvartate
Whatever actions great persons perform, common people follow. Whatever standards they set, all the world pursues.

Lately, I’ve been finding solace in short stories. These engaging tales have been a source of comfort amidst my busy schedule. Book 121 of 2023 is a delightful collection of short stories that have been quite captivating.

Caution! Twists Ahead by Amresh Srivastava is a compelling collection of Seven short stories that takes readers on a roller-coaster ride through the unpredictable journey of life. With themes ranging from love, suspense, loss, life, and complex relationships, this book captivates readers with its unexpected turns and thought-provoking narratives. Amresh Srivastava’s writing style is both intriguing and engaging, drawing readers into each story with concise yet impactful prose. The stories are carefully crafted, with intriguing plots and well-developed characters that make them relatable and easy to connect with.

One standout feature of the book is the incorporation of a message from the Bhagavad Gita at the end of each chapter. This unique touch adds depth to the stories by exploring how human reactions and decisions can shape the outcomes of various situations. It also provides an interesting perspective on the themes presented in the stories. This unique addition not only enriches the reading experience but also adds a philosophical layer to the stories.

Also Read: An escape to the town- Welcome to Aaraampur by Dhruv Nath – Book Review

The book explores the idea that life is full of unexpected twists, and each story reinforces this concept in its own way. From the suspenseful to the heartwarming, each narrative is designed to leave readers pondering the complexities of human emotions and choices. Ultimately, the stories underscore the power of perspective and how we can influence and transform our own situations.

While ‘Mysterious Journey of a stolen suitcase’ tells about not judging anyone by their appearance and to not engaging in any ill activities, ‘Deadly Measures’ talks about how being jealous of someone has its own deeds. One standout story that remains etched in my mind is ‘Stealthy Lottery – A Manager’s Nightmare’. It tells about how God is always there around us, guiding us but being greedy can make things worst.

Each story concludes with a satisfying climax, leaving readers with a sense of closure and intrigue Amresh, with his words teaches us lessons for life. He shares how Good Deeds have its rewards and how every effort pays off. How every bad work you do, the truth will haunt you. In these 112 pages, these stories create situations that we often come across. His approach is practical and honest. How sometimes, we find it difficult to accept the truth and the situations, how sometimes we expect too much from our children and expect them to fulfil our dreams.

While the stories are undoubtedly engaging and thought-provoking, one minor drawback is their brevity. Some readers might find themselves wanting more, as the narratives often conclude just as the intrigue reaches its peak. A bit more elaboration could have further enriched the reading experience. Caution! Twists Ahead is an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned readers alike. With its concise yet impactful narratives, this book serves is perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of short stories.