Views and Reviews
Ammar Ali Qureshi

This compilation of essays, book reviews and pen sketches, published in Pakistani newspapers over the past 15 years, covers a range of interests. The writings are divided into six sections: ‘Historical Perspectives on Punjab’, ‘Pakistan: Past and Present’, ‘Muslim World: Rainbows and Shadows’, ‘Governance and Economic Issues’, ‘Personalities and Memoirs’ and, lastly, ‘Thoughts and Afterthoughts’.

Karachi Ki Galiyaan
Nasreen Aslam Shah

An earlier work on the subject from the prolific author was Shehron Mein Shehr Karachi: Aik Mutaaliati Jaiza [A City Among Cities Karachi: A Survey of Studies]. This follow-up is a comprehensive listing of Karachi’s major and many minor streets and alleys, including such useful places as Generator Waali Gali [The Generator Alley] and Banarsi Gali, which is a hub of banarsi fabric sellers.

Tholly
Kuldeep Sharma

A novella set in the town of Setpur, India, this story will strike a chord with many in Pakistan as well. Fourteen-year-old Tholly is the youngest of four siblings belonging to a poverty-stricken farming family. When his father falls ill, Tholly must face the indifference and apathy of the medical staff at a government-run hospital, where the outcome of a cricket match is more important than caring for the sick.

The Language of Paradise
Kashaf Alvi

This journey through the experiences of a hearing-impaired person in a world pulsating with sound explores stigmas, stereotypes and discrimination. The author explains the difficulties in lip-reading (especially in the aftermath of face-masking) and non-universal sign languages and also gives pointers for the hearing as well as hearing-impaired on how to go past barriers and learn to communicate effectively.

Published in Dawn, Books & Authors, February 27th, 2022