Book Review: Truly Madly Deeply

‘Truly Madly Deeply’ is the only book written by an Indian author to be nominated in the’ Top 100 YA Global Fiction List’. It’s an emotional and touching memoir of a broken hearts first love. Faraaz Kazi’s debut novel is sure to enthrall readers of all age groups and take them on a journey back in time, when they had their first crush. Teenage romances are not at all uncommon in India. And ‘Truly Madly Deeply’ is one such love story revolving around Rahul and Seema.

Plot And Summary

Rahul is the Blue House captain and the best in every task he undertakes. He is the person everyone would wish to be like. He is an inspiration for all the students (except a few). Studies, sports, literary activities, cultural activities an even looks- whatever it may be, Rahul is the best. And Seema according to the author is his beautiful female equivalent. She is the assistant head girl and the most beautiful one too. Boys queue up just to get a chance to propose her. But she doesn’t fall for anyone, except Rahul.

Through some delightful instances their love blossoms. Clashes and then making up are the best part of any love story. But here it goes out of control. A lot of misunderstandings and ego clashes make them drift apart. At a time when they are back on track, the villains pop up. Jay, Nazhia, Farzha and Rashid play the negative role (the major one being done by Jay). For their personnel gains and because of jealousy they make them drift apart. Will Rahul ever meet Seema again? Will Seema realize the depth of Rahul’s feelings?

Narration

The narration is simple and yet compelling. At the initial stage, it is slow paced, but gradually acquires pace until it becomes unputdownable. Most of the dialogues are very filmy and some of them even manage to bring a smile on the reader’s face. One thing I felt bad about the book is that, some dialogues don’t belong to teenager’s mouth and seem much matured. It would have worked well with a college love story. The inclusion of sonnets and poems before the flashbacks give the readers an idea of what is coming their way.

Conclusion

‘Truly Madly Deeply ‘is one of the best touching novels I have ever read. After reading this book, readers will be able to relate many instances and characters in the book with their real life. The descriptions of different events, such as the cricket match, debate and quiz competitions add spice to the story. The description that Rahul gives about Seema can actually make you visualize Seema standing right in front of you. Faraaz Kazi in his’ Note to the Readers’ describes the novel as being ‘readable’. But after you read the novel you will understand that this novel is much more than just ‘readable’. This is one of those novels which would be good to watch on the big screen.