If you like travelogues, this book may interest you. I have heard about this author from speakers who mention his writings and stories in Patimandram ( Debate talks in Tamil). This was my first book by this author Jeyamohan.
This book Mugangalin Desam is his travelogues of India and Bhutan in 54 chapters, each with short narration of when the travel happened, to where, how was the experience and exploration of the place as well as people in that locality.
Initially, I wasn’t much drawn into the book. The first chapter was about a travel on the look out for some mountain near Maharashtra. I have never heard of such places and had no clue while reading it.
Still, I had a little hope that I might find something interesting and kept reading.
To my surprise, 4th chapter was about Adhichanalur which is in Thoothukudi district (that was separated from my district Tirunelveli). This gained my attention and intrigued my interest towards this book.
That enthusiasm made me finish reading this book. Some chapters told about different aspects but of same travel and place and people which could’ve been in the same chapter.
41st and 42nd chapter also much similar and it must be printing or editing mistake I guess. There were nearly three narrations in repetition in both the chapters.
I have two concerns alone. One the author itself mentioned himself. One of his friends who always accompany him in such travels being interested in photography, keeps clicking people’s faces. He does that either with or without the other people’s concern. What bothered me the most is that he used to use those people’s faces for his book covers. Regarding this author himself agreed on the ethical issues here. Another one was about the usage of words in their trip to Kashmir especially for sightseeing of the river Aari. It’s a risky route and place including for Indian Militants. Inspite of mentioning the threat to their safety and existence, the author keeps repeating that it was exciting and joyous which could mislead some readers. Apart from these two concerns, I felt it as an overall good book.
Another thing I must mention is what I liked the most is the author doesn’t sugarcoat to sell only the positive experiences. It was raw and realistic with truth.
My overall rating for this book would be
It has simple language and real conversation slang. So many young Tamil readers will also enjoy this book.
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