Shiuli by Sanjib Chattopadhyay [Hardcover]

There is no murder or bloodshed, but there is mystery. There is no destination, but there is a journey. There are no ghosts, but there is adventure. There is no advice, but there is inspiration. Much of what is expected is absent, yet this extraordinary novel, Shiulī, is filled with priceless, unexpected surprises. Truly, there is no murder, injury, or crime in this story. Yet, the novel touches upon many mysteries of life and the world, nature and the universe. This is not a conventional travelogue, but as children read it, they will somehow learn to step beyond the boundaries of childhood, into the world of adolescence, beyond the realm of mere sight into the world of knowledge, and beyond the level of feeling into the profound depth of understanding. Just as Joy and Jaya, the two siblings, took such steps, holding the hands of their generous father and deep grandfather, sometimes letting go. This novel is centered around Joy and Jaya, telling the story of their growing up. Still, the way Sanjeev Chattopadhyay narrates their story is so unique and flawless that it will captivate every child and young reader, and even their guardians.