Aako Bako Review: A Delightful Dive into Ordinary Lives
Last week, I finished Aako Bako by Divya Prakash Dubey, and it was refreshing. One of the best Hindi novels I’ve read recently. It's not every day that a book captures the intricacies of ordinary lives in such an engaging and light-hearted manner. As someone who enjoys short stories that make you think and smile, Aako Bako did not disappoint.
My Rating:
❤️❤️❤️❤️🤍
“A delightful dive into ordinary lives.”
What is Aako Bako about?
Aako Bako is a collection of 16 short stories, all of which focus on everyday people navigating everyday life. Dubey brings together characters who range from a mom dreaming of television fame to a taxi driver moonlighting as a supporting actor. There’s a postman going about his day, a company executive dealing with corporate life, and many more.
What stands out is the diversity of the characters. Dubey showcases people from all walks of life, giving us a peek into their worlds, their joys, and their struggles. The beauty of the book lies in its simplicity – it’s about people like you and me, and yet, their stories feel fresh and insightful. Dubey manages to make these seemingly ordinary moments extraordinary.
The dedication page itself sets the tone for the book:
“दीप्ति, लो लिख दिया पहले पन्ने पर तुम्हारा नाम। अब खुश?” (Deepti, wrote your name on the first page. Happy?)
Why should you read Aako Bako?
Dubey’s writing is laid-back, which makes the stories cozy to read, even when they tackle complex emotions. He has a knack for blending humour with deeper themes, and that’s what makes the book such an enjoyable read.
While some stories may leave you feeling reflective or even a little melancholic, there’s always a touch of humour sprinkled throughout, making this bitter-sweet book easy to digest.
Aako Bako review: To read or not to?
If you're someone who enjoys a book that you can both smile and reflect over, Aako Bako is for you. The stories are engaging and relatable, especially for young adults and working professionals. And if you're familiar with the blend of Hindi and English that Dubey uses so effortlessly, the contemporary touch of Hinglish will make the stories even more enjoyable.
You won’t find grand, sweeping narratives or earth-shattering revelations here. Instead, you’ll find small, intimate stories that echo the complexities of modern life. This collection isn’t about providing solutions or life lessons; it’s about observing, relating, and perhaps laughing at the absurdities of life.
Aako Bako is a must-read if you enjoy light-hearted yet profound short stories.
Final Thoughts
Divya Prakash Dubey’s Aako Bako is a delightful read for anyone who enjoys short stories with heart and humour. The unique storytelling style, paired with relatable narratives and the use of Hinglish, makes it a contemporary piece that resonates with today’s readers. Whether you're looking for something cozy or thought-provoking, this book strikes the right balance.
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