BOOK REVIEW :
If you've ever found yourself staring into the sky asking questions no one seems to answer, then Hi God, How Are You? is the book that speaks your language. Manoj Kumar Sharma has created a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that takes the reader on a reflective journey through the eyes of Fairy, a specially-abled child who communicates with God through a unique digital app called "∀".
Fairy is not just a character—she’s a mirror to our society. Her poetic, soul-stirring questions like "Why do the poor suffer?" or "Why was I born this way?" cut through the noise and compel readers to stop and truly listen. Her childlike innocence clashes with complex realities—corruption, unemployment, gender inequality, and environmental crises—unveiling the cracks in our world that we often choose to ignore.
The narrative doesn't follow a conventional arc. Instead, it flows like a series of journal entries or personal conversations—raw, tender, and brimming with sincerity. Sharma’s use of language is simple yet powerful, making heavy themes digestible and relatable. Each of the seven chapters focuses on a different dimension of the world we live in, with Chapter Five standing out as a particularly impactful critique of modern-day democracy.
Through Fairy’s viral videos and her online reach, Sharma cleverly explores how technology can be a tool for spiritual expression and social change. Her growing influence eventually leads to a gripping courtroom drama, emphasizing the clash between truth and power, and how a single voice, even if small, can stir the conscience of many.
What makes this novel stand apart is its capacity to make readers introspect. It's not about delivering answers but about daring to ask the uncomfortable questions. Fairy’s dialogue with God opens a window into a deeply personal, almost sacred space, one that urges readers to revisit their own beliefs and biases.
The book also doesn’t shy away from critiquing the status quo. From India's long-standing issues post-independence to global concerns like terrorism and climate change, Sharma paints a sobering yet necessary portrait of the times we live in. Still, there's an underlying message of hope—that change is possible if we begin with awareness and empathy.
Hi God, How Are You? is a gentle but powerful wake-up call. It’s not just a story—it’s a spiritual conversation, a socio-political critique, and a heartfelt appeal to humanity, all wrapped into one beautifully written book. If you're someone who enjoys books that make you think, feel, and question, this is a must-read.
Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐
This book will move you, challenge you, and perhaps even change you. Highly recommended for readers of all ages who are looking for meaning in a noisy world.
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