Writer Smita Das Jain reviews the book The Pause by Monica Singh.
In "The Pause," Monica Singh crafts a captivating collection of seven short stories that transcends the pages, each tale a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of life's trials. Written as part of the Covid Diary Writing challenge during the pandemic lockdown, the stories artfully incorporate the global backdrop without being confined to it.
The common thread woven through these narratives is the exploration of relationships — not just with others, but the intricate dance of self-discovery. The pandemic serves as a quiet observer, subtly influencing each story without being the central focus. Monica skillfully delves into the intricacies of human emotions, evoking smiles, surprises, despair, and hope in equal measure.
What sets "The Pause" apart is Monica's ability to breathe life into diverse characters, their surroundings and emotions, making readers feel deeply connected to their journeys. As a reader, you can't help but empathize with the smiles, understand the surprises, and share in the despair and hope that permeates each narrative. This emotional resonance is a testament to Monica's remarkable writing prowess.
While every story is a gem, "Thursday's Adventures" stands out for me with its innovative narration. The author ingeniously propels the story forward by interweaving dictionary meanings of certain terms as a literary device, offering readers a unique insight into the protagonist's mindset. It's a narrative technique that adds layers of depth to an already compelling story.
As a reader, "The Pause" ranks among the best for me, leaving an indelible impression. Monica's debut showcases a distinctive voice that leaves you yearning for more. However, as a reviewer, the titles of some stories fall short of capturing the essence within. They appear ordinary and fail to resonate sufficiently with the corresponding narratives.
Gifted by the author, this literary gem took its time to be picked up by me, and the experience made me regret the needless wait. "The Pause" is a melodious symphony of emotions, beautifully composed.
In conclusion, "The Pause" is a delightful exploration of the human experience, skillfully navigating the intricacies of relationships and self-discovery. Monica Singh's debut is a compelling read that elicits a range of emotions, leaving readers with a desire for more.
My rating for the book is 4.7/5. The short story collection is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess, and I await to lead a longer format of her soon.