Book
title: The Story of a Suicide
Author: Sriram Ayer
Rating: 7.8 / 10
Intro: I think most of us have, at some point of
time in our lives, considered suicide as an option. Suicide is often considered
as a last resort, but does that make it the worst option? Are those who commit
suicide cowards/quitters? “The Story of a Suicide” written by Sriram Ayer and
with illustrations by Ghana, compels you to ponder these very questions. The
story revolves around teenagers Hari, Charu, Sam and Mani, and the web of
secrets, love, passion, revenge and lies that connects them together.
Review: Before you start wondering whether you should
buy the hard copy of this book or the Kindle version, I wish to inform you that
the book is in the form of a website, and can be
accessed for free. If you aren’t really the type who likes to look at a screen
for long, or who likes to read (Yes, I know you people exist!) as an audio book
version is also available for free download and can be downloaded from here.
The
book is a must read for teenagers and adults alike. The dialogues in the book
are realistic and makes one feel that they are back in college and facing
problems of bullying, groupism and sexual confusion. I personally found the
character of Hari, being a wallflower, to be very relatable. Hari’s parents,
the Hegde’s, are completely oblivious to the problems which he is facing,
though their heart is in the right place. He is also loved by his elder sister,
Anjali. Hari also finds solace in his friend Mani who is constantly under
tremendous parental pressure. Their friend Charu who seemingly represents the
girl-next-door, is also a strong and loveable person who can be relied on. The
tech freak Sam is also portrayed very realistically. Although Sam’s actions
seem reprehensible, they are also really relatable as there are born of
passion.
The
characters have to fight many challenges such as cyber-bullying and expressing
homosexuality. While they all struggle with their respective problems, one of
the characters considers committing suicide. I don’t want to reveal whether
he/she does or does, as I do not want to ruin the fun for the readers. The
portion of the book that has the most impact is without a doubt the last few
paragraphs.
With
its simple yet captivating language “The Story of a Suicide” promises to keep one engaged from
start to finish. In conclusion I just want to say that the book should not be
read with the aim to pass the time, but with the aim to experience what today’s
youth do, and to learn their experiences.
Additional
Note: I feel I would be remiss in
my duties if I did not offer you all some tips and advice on how to deal with
depression, break-ups and suicidal tendencies. The author Sriram Ayer has also
given detailed list of Do’s and Don’ts on the website and I have found the same
is to be very accurate and useful. In addition to the points contained therein
I only wish to stress on having a close confidant (or confidants) with whom you
can share any sorrow and who will guide you without judgement. All of us,
including the youth of today, feel the necessity to keep our true emotions and
thoughts bottled up either because we are ashamed what others will perceive us
or because we have no one who we can trust completely. When we don’t have
someone like that in our lives we feel like there is a hole in our heart and
negative emotions just wait to pounce on that weakened heart and take over.
Find someone whom you can trust and then pour your heart out to them. But
without mutual trust and understand all that will be left in this world is
suffering and sorrow. Don’t be too quick in forsaking yourself.
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