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Afternoons and More by Jaya Pillai: A Heartwarming Collection of Pandemic Tales, Recipes, and Poems

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Book Title: Afternoons and More

Author: Jaya Pillai

Publication Year: 2022


"Afternoons and More" is a significant little book that registers the lived experience during the pandemic days written by Jaya Pillai. It is a collection of anecdotes, recipes, and poems based on the author's experiences during the pandemic, which are heartwarming and affectionate. Jaya Pillai takes readers inside her family's life as it deals with the ups and downs of lockdowns and social isolation. The author filters these experiences with her unique voice and touch of humour. 

The book begins with a comical story of a bat that enters their home and how a seven-year-old overcomes the adults' fear of it. Throughout the book, the author uses her wit to present a comical take on the pandemic's issues. Her insights on Anagapesis, or the loss of love, as seen through the lens of smartphones and our addiction to them, are profound and timely.

One of the most essential aspects of the book is the section on recipes. The author and her family attempt to follow her mother's culinary delights, with amusing yet successful outcomes. Written with grace and charm, this section captivates the mind of the reader as it is also a glimpse into the versatility of the author. 


The book finishes with a collection of poetry that represents the pandemic's impact on people and the human experience in general. The poems are an encouraging reminder of the importance of kindness, resilience, and optimism.

Jaya Pillal's writing is enthralling, spontaneous, and authentic. Her ability to find humour in even the most commonplace situations is both refreshing and encouraging. The cheerful tone of the book makes it a quick and delightful read, appropriate for anyone looking for a break from the pandemic's dread and gloom.

Overall, "Afternoons and More" is a magnificent monument to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a book that celebrates the beauty of simple everyday interactions as well as the importance of community in navigating difficult times. Everyone who needs some joy and hope in their lives should read this book. My personal favourite is point number 11 in the section titled Random Thoughts, “New Gleanings”.  Afternoons and More is published by Writersgram Publications. The typesetting and cover are good, and the courage of the publisher to bring out a book with a medley of collections that does not stick to a particular genre is commendable. Jaya Pillai rises way beyond the regular figures, both celebrated and uncelebrated, among the Indian English writers’ community with a unique voice and a gift of craft. 

The Holistic Pine Ranking:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Stars 

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