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Name of the book: If I Have to Be a Soldier
Author of the book: Nikhil J. Alva
Genre of the book: Literary & Contemporary Fiction
ABOUT THE BOOK
"If I Have to Be a Soldier" by Nikhil Alava presents a poignant exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the grim realities of war. Set against the backdrop of the 1966 Mizo rebellion, Alava weaves a gripping narrative that delves deep into the complexities of human nature when confronted with moral dilemmas and the harsh consequences of choices made in times of conflict.
The story follows Indian Army Captain Samuel Rego, who finds himself entangled in a web of conflicting loyalties when he discovers that one of the most feared rebel commanders, known as 'Che,' is none other than his childhood friend from the Mara tribe. As Samuel grapples with his duty to his country and the bonds of friendship, he is forced to confront the brutal realities of war and the personal sacrifices it demands.
Alava skilfully portrays the emotional turmoil experienced by Samuel and Che as they navigate the treacherous terrain of the Mizo Hills while being pursued as fugitives. Through vivid descriptions and powerful imagery, the author vividly captures the tension and danger of their journey, immersing the reader in the harrowing struggles faced by both characters.
What sets "If I Have to Be a Soldier" apart is its exploration of the deeper themes of identity, redemption, and the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war. As Samuel and Che confront their past and the choices that led them down divergent paths, the novel poses thought-provoking questions about morality and the human capacity for forgiveness. In the backdrop, their also exists a love story that is likely one of the reasons for the drifting apart of these two friends due to confusion and misunderstanding.
MY TAKE ON THE BOOK
"If I Have to Be a Soldier" is a gripping and emotionally resonant novel that transcends the confines of its wartime setting to explore timeless themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the search for redemption. Nikhil Alava's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience in times of conflict. Alava's prose is both lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into a world of turmoil and uncertainty, where the line between friend and foe blurs and allegiances are tested. The author's meticulous research into the historical context of the Mizo rebellion adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a little-known chapter of India's past.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikhil j. Alva is an award-winning producer-director and writer. His work has been screened on major broadcast networks and platforms all over the world. Nikhil earned a BA (Hons) in Mathematics from St. Stephen's College and later MBA from the London Business School. He is a serial entrepreneur, a climate change warrior, a communications and social media maven, a national shooting champion, a pianist and an avid golfer. He is a rebel without a pause, a chronic supporter of underdog causes, and lovers the challenges of trudging off the beaten path. This is his first novel.
BOOK DETAILS
Format: Paperback/ Kindle Edition
Price: 324 INR/ 171.09 INR
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Pages: 336
Availability: Amazon
This Book is part of Blogchatter's #Book Review Program #TBR Challenge #BookChatter #2024
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mads' Cookhouse.
It is definitely difficult to be a soldier or a person in any kind of power because the decisions we need to make at certain times may be against our moral values. A good example is the Royal Family of England. I follow them closely and have seen how their positions affects so much of their decisions!
ReplyDelete'If I Have to Be a Soldier' by Nikhil Alava seems to be a captivating exploration of friendship and loyalty amidst the backdrop of the 1966 Mizo rebellion. With the vivid imagery that you have painted through your review and thought-provoking themes, it appears to be a compelling read for people like us, who are interested in historical fiction.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a must-read. I like books set with battles as a backdrop, the moral dilemma is stronger in the case.
ReplyDeleteI have read this book and I completely agree with your opinion of this book. I quite enjoyed reading it, taking in the culture and landscape of Mizoram and the turmoil of that era.
ReplyDeleteWow! I haven't read a war book in a while. The ones I have read in the past have been lovely n even the movies I have watched. Very beautifully worded review Swati... I liked your choice of words and your style of writing. If I get back to reading enough books, I will give this one a try.
ReplyDeleteI have seen this book around but yet to pick it up. Taking a break from army and partition backdrop books. Very few people are even aware of the Mizo rebellion, let one there being a book on it. After reading your review, I will surely add it to my TBR.
ReplyDeleteYou had me at ' award-winning producer-director and writer. And also in your thoughts where you said the book explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the search for redemption because I dislike books that one-theme centered. Will check this one out. Thanks for the recommendation.
ReplyDeleteWow, "If I Have to Be a Soldier" sounds like an incredibly gripping read! The way Nikhil Alva explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of war really intrigues me. Thank you for your thorough review.
ReplyDeleteI have read someone else's review also about the same book and they also have strongly recommended it. The backdrop sounds interesting. Thanks for the crisp review. Just curious to know your rating for this book.
ReplyDeleteIf I Have to Be a Soldier" by Nikhil Alava seems quite interesting. Book relted to warto war and haven't read such kinds of books. Will check it out .
ReplyDeleteYour take on the book highlights its emotional resonance and the depth of its themes, which is always a sign of a compelling narrative. I'm particularly intrigued by the exploration of identity, redemption, and the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war. It seems like Alava has crafted a story that goes beyond just the historical backdrop to delve into the hearts and minds of his characters.
ReplyDeleteI've been eyeing "I Have to Be a Soldier" for a while now, but I haven't gotten around to picking it up yet. I've been taking a break from books. This one by Nikhil Alava seems interesting though, with its focus on friendship and loyalty during the 1966 Mizo rebellion. It sounds like a change of pace from what I've been reading, and I'm curious to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteAn story in the war backdrop filled with conflict in the wat and the battle thr mind and heart of the characters undergo is always a roller coaster ride filled with emotions and is totally soulful from your revirw I understand that this book is one.
ReplyDeleteBattles and wars and also politics are some topics which I prefer to stay away from untill it has some moral or fantasy stories to offer. I now the life of a fighter or a soldier is not an easy one and even there can be fatal... i dont have the power to bear the pain of those fatals. I even avoid watching war related movies as it pains me. Recently I watched FIGHTER movie but before that I got to know about the main charecters will stay alive and then I watched it. One of the key soldiers of the team lost the life brutally in the hands of opponent and the pain reflected in the eyes of the parents were unbearable for me. I will prefer to skip this book and I hope you will forgive me.
ReplyDeleteHaven't read any book on war in the Indian context. Last year I read 'All the Light we cannot see' and it was such a lovely book about lives of two people that intersect during the second WW. One of the key characters is a young German boy.
ReplyDeleteI'm fascinated by stories that delve into the complexities of human nature, especially in times of conflict. Your take on the book really emphasizes its depth and resonance.
ReplyDeleteIf I have to be a soldier definitely seems to be an interesting read. I love the review and would pick this up sooner
ReplyDeleteStories about soldiers are often laced with strong emotional narratives about love, friendship and identity. This book seems to have all the factors that make for great storytelling. Would like to add it to my TBR. Good review!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a well researched and well written book. I feel that it is difficult to show turmoil of a soldier when he has to protect and take decisions for the larger good... it seems like the author has done a good job on this complexity.
ReplyDeleteInteresting book review, Swati. The author seems to have delved deep into the recesses of the mind of a soldier and came out with a gripping narrative. A soldier has to be stoic always and not emotion rule his mind or heart. Tough job for sure.
ReplyDeleteWow! I have never read a war book in a while. Your review makes me to grab this one and finish it at a goal. A soldier and his responsibility are really something to be proud of. Amazing.
ReplyDeleteThe book sounds intriguing. I've never heard of the author before, but your review makes me want to try reading this book.
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