Achyuth

A book which opens without any formal introductions to any of the references in the book. Just the way I like it. A book which behave as both a collection of short stories and a novel, it is a refreshing read and unputdownable. I generally do not get into fiction due to it's immensity, but this is something I will not regret diving into.

This book clearly has an exponential rise in it's events: starts off slow and descriptive, but ending in a storm of arrows, blood and broken bones.

The building of every character is very progressive and very relatable, whether it's Dandelion unleasing his hidden bravery, Ciri morphing into a ruthless killer with The Rats or Geralt trusting people and learning to take help.A shoutout to Milva and Regis: Two fine characters introduced into the story who (hopefully) have a long way to go alongside Geralt.
Milva and Philippa Eilhart are two characters which establish the existence of strong-willed women in the era of highly unsavory Dark Ages.

This book evolves into an exceptioanlly fast paced story revlvong around the hunt for Ciri by Geralt and the TheLodge , and the evolution of Ciri from a child into a realized fighter.The Baptism of Fire is but the beginning of the several tests Geralt and Friends must individually pass to survive or perish trying to.

Little more can be said about a gentleman who is universally loved and respected. While the work is marketed as an autobiography, he spares no pain in praising those who carried him on their shoulders from the values imparted by his father, the friendship of his (to-be) brother-in-law to the inspiration induced by none other than Vikram Sarabhai himself.

Despite being an abridged version, there is much to learn and contains enough inspiration for every reader, a hundred times over. The narrator, Girish Karnad, does a pristine job in conveying the jubiliant moments in Kalamji's life, and equally portrays the depth in times of sorrow and regret. Three Brothers & a Violin synchronise melodiously with the narrator, the scene at hand and the listener be it the rise in tension as India was facing-off diplomatic challenges in the wake of Prithvi or the serenity of Rameshwaram.

This edition has only made me want to dive deeper into the life and philosophy of the Missile Man of India, A. P. J Abdul Kalam.