Grasslands, by Shekhar Khatri, is a stunning odyssey that invites readers into a world filled with intrigue, suspense, and philosophical musings. At the heart of the tale is an unnamed protagonist—a college student with a contemplative outlook on life. As he and his friends gather to mark Kentaro’s birthday, what follows is a journey into the nearby woods, leading to a chance encounter with a mysterious witch and an evening filled with otherworldly experiences.

Khatri artfully interweaves another narrative into the story, taking us to the village of Mayydana, where we traverse the life of Aleko—from his innocent beginnings to his rise as a renowned war hero grappling with his own identity and purpose.

The novel plays with elements of mystique. Characters remain unnamed, events unfold with an air of ambiguity, and readers are left to ponder over the intricate connections between the two tales. The witch’s recurrent appearances, the peculiarities of the characters’ nights, and their introspections ignite a flurry of questions. Could Aleko’s life be a reflection of another character’s past existence? How do these parallel narratives intertwine?

Khatri’s storytelling evokes the whimsical charm reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland, albeit with a collegiate twist. Additionally, the spiritual undertones are reminiscent of Hermann Hesse’s masterpiece, Siddhartha, drawing parallels to quests for enlightenment and self-realization.

Grasslands challenges conventions, leading its readers on a labyrinthine expedition, often blurring the lines of reality. It is a book that stimulates introspection, compelling readers to seek answers and form interpretations. In its pages lies a tale that will undoubtedly fuel conversations and theories for years to come. An unequivocal must-read, this novel promises an unparalleled literary adventure. Highly recommended for those in search of groundbreaking narratives.

Pages: 205 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CFD7KPP6