"Thirty women. Thirty stories." | Joys & perils of being a woman
Knit together with 30 stories of inspirational women, Cecelia Ahern’s new novel is as much inspiring as it is engaging, writes Madhupriti Mitra
As women, we may have sometimes been miserable, standing at crossroads – undecided yet often paranoid at situations beyond our control. If one is searching for hope and positivity, Cecelia Ahern’s Roar provides the perfect cure to overcome vices. It triggers a spark latent within every self. With remarkable stories of 30 women in a collection of 30 short stories, this novel deserves the attention of everyone who desires to fly high in life. Ahern, through her convincing words, made me believe that spending adequate time with myself could be the best healer in times of trouble.
After writing at least 11 books and being published in nearly 50 countries, Ahern has not only penned this book with thoughtful language but has also painstakingly added a soul to each story, knitting them seamlessly through the novel.
The novel has narrated stories from the perspectives of 30 different women about moments, memories and problems that have shaped their being. Each tale has illustrated an anecdote of the shared experiences of women’s lives and their journey of overcoming a predicament. There are hurdles and challenges in each story; but, each time, the protagonist has bravely conquered her fear with impeccable will power.
Shedding light on anxiety, myths, fear and downfalls, Ahern has intensely characterised all protagonists in a light of optimism and valour.
As Ahern narrates, experiencing guilt, nostalgia, doubt and humiliation are natural but it is just as important to be able to overcome these vices. Her protagonist battles with anxiety but fights back at an important time, realising that emotional turbulences are expected but reconciliation is just as important.
In the book, readers will encounter one woman – stuck in the rut of household chores, family obligations and professional workload – with no time for herself through her busy schedule. Reading through her fuzzy, messed life, surrounded by noise and without quality self-time – the novel describes the value and importance of securing one’s individual space amid all responsibilities. Interestingly, as the protagonist doesn’t have a name, any reader caught in today’s scurry can easily reveal themselves in the story’s narrative.
To inspire readers towards choosing the right path, Ahern has highlighted themes that ordinary women can relate with while adding an engaging narrative and providing essential anecdotes on living a simpler life in spite of the weight of today’s burdens.
Ahern started writing at the age of 21 and has enjoyed widespread success with her several books. She has also gained global popularity with two Hollywood film adaptions of her books – P.S. I Love You and Love Rosie.
Among all the 30 stories, there is one surprise chapter, in the end, comprising stories of seven women from different walks of life – each woman has a secret, either related to her lifestyle or to her profession.
Altering with funny, clever, witty and love stories, women in their 20s and above might find the book more interesting. The novel is an inspirational package of entertainment along with a touch of crazy surprise as some tales will hold your interest until you reach the climax.
