When I first got to know that my fellow author in Mock, Stalk and Quarrel was coming out with a full-fledged novel I was obviously thrilled for her. What added even more to the charm of the book was that it had initially been a short story which was later expanded to a novel. When I got to know that, not only was I stumped, I was also reminded of my own experience of writing a novel and expanding it from an earlier shorter version. It's not easy, I thought to myself. And full kudos to Anupama Jain for doing it, and doing it successfully. Knowing well her brand of humour, and being familiar with her impactful satirical writing, when I started reading, a smile invariably made its way across my face in anticipation. And the opening sentences kept that smile intact.

I received the book Mornings in Jenin by Susan Abulhawa (along with another book by the same author- The Blue Between Sky and Water) as a birthday gift from Kirthi Jayakumar, author of The Doodler of Dimashq. Because I had loved The Doodler of Dimashq, Kirthi thought I may enjoy this book too. Mornings In Jenin Thank you, Kirthi, for this wonderful gift. I am so glad I got to read this tragic yet beautiful book.

  First things first,   2016 was the year of discovery. I realized I could officially call myself a writer. I reached a record number of views on my blog. From being a blogger and freelance writer, I became part of an anthology - Mock, Stalk and Quarrel. The spate...