Lifestyle

'Saigrace - The Storyteller' book review: A living document of human experience

By Passang Nuru Sherpa

Saigrace Pokharel is a master storyteller who, in recent years, has managed to win the hearts of listeners of any age, be it young or old. There is something magical about the power of his voice, delivery, and emotional storytelling: a power which reaches out to the human heart, lifts sadness, and spreads a whole new wave of freshness towards life. Many of his narrated stories are available on YouTube, which I had the pleasure of listening to, as well as experiencing one of his live performances, as well as having one of my own stories narrated by him. Therefore, it is fitting that I introduce myself as one of those who are highly influenced by his art of storytelling, character, and human sensitivity. Against this background of his own experience and influence, it was that I began to read his latest e-book release entitled 'Saigrace – The Storyteller'. Right from my first experience of encountering the cover of this book, his profundity exudes. His Black-and-White portrait on the cover of the book is so skillfully laid out along with his name in such a way that it gives one an impression of not only purchasing a book but an invitation to a serious literary journey. Written in English, the moment the first page is turned, the reader is ushered into a world of emotion, memory, and introspection. Containing a total of nine chapters and adorned with fifty-four captivating photos from various points in time and around the world, 'Saigrace - The Storyteller' is far from being a mere book. It is a living library of human story and experience where words and photos come together and talk to one's heart. To consider it just a collection of events would be a diminisher of its worth. For it is in truth a reflection of the author's own experience and philosophy and dialogue with society. Through its pages flow the complexities of life itself: life, love, suffering, hope, interactions, dreams, hopelessness, and transformation, in ways so sublime and emotionally expressive that the reader finds itself effortlessly engrossed in the narratives. Saigrace writes in a very simple and personal style that is full of emotional impact. There is nothing showy about his language; indeed, the words he uses are bridges that directly reach the heart of the reader. In the process of reading the book, one feels that one is traveling along with the author through the pages. There are moments when the reader smiles along with the author and moments when the reader reads through the pages with tears in eyes. The book is also a mirror reflection of contemporary society. It is a reflection of human suffering and complicated relationships in society and the underlying compassion and beauty present in life. It is not just a source of entertainment but also makes the reader take stock of his or her life and society in a way that goes beyond reflection to action and is something that has immense ethical and social value. It is not just emotionally enticing but also has immense social value. Further, his audio novel publication, 'Mero Adhuro Prem, (my incomplete love story)' is one of the most-watched audio novel experiences in the world; it ranks fourth in the world in terms of views and engagement. This testifies not only to her talent, but the power of all stories that are told in an authentic and genuine way. 'Saigrace - The Storyteller' is a book for all those who have the urge to comprehend life in a better way, make genuine friendships, indulge in thoughtful conversations with society, and find inner peace. It is not possible to find a single reader who has not been impacted by this book in some manner. One returns home with new perspectives. This, above all, is the work's most outstanding achievement. The reviewer Passang Nuru Sherpa is an award winning author. His has recently published his book 'Behind The Mask: A Pandemic Memoir and Corona Katha'