Book Review Of Matchbox – A Collection Of Short Stories By Ashapurna Debi And Translated By Prasenjit Gupta
Book Review Of Matchbox – A Collection Of Short Stories By Ashapurna Debi And Translated By Prasenjit Gupta
Every year countless books are translated from their original languages to enhance their reach. From fictional novels to self-help books and literary works of great writers, translated versions of books provide readers with an opportunity to enjoy the best works of authors in a language that they can understand.
Matchbox is one such book that presents a translated collection of short stories penned by renowned Bengali writer Ashapurna Debi. The credit for translating the stories from Bengali to English with utmost efficiency goes to Prasenjit Gupta.
Premise – Matchbox – A Collection Of Short Stories
The book comprises 21 stories written by stalwart Bengali writer Ashapurna Debi, with each story highlighting the struggles of women within their families and households. The stories have at least one female character fighting the established rules of society with their strong will and character. They also highlight the rage of men, along with their worries and their tendency to be manipulated, which was an integral part of extraordinarily subtle feminism promoted by the original writer. Being someone who is not able to read or understand Bengali, the book proved to be nothing less than a great gift. Every story provided an insight into the rich culture and traditions of Bengal in a precise yet entertaining manner.
Who Should Read It – Matchbox – A Collection Of Short Stories
The book is must read for people who love simple everyday stories that highlight the problems within our story without being too preachy. It is also a good read for people who love contemporary Bengali literature but do not know the language. Readers who like stories with strong female characters or who favor subtle feminism like Ashapurna Debi will also love the book.
Writing Style – Matchbox – A Collection Of Short Stories
Translating any work of Ashapurna Debi is a challenging task given her skill to capture the culture and nuances of Bengali society perfectly through her writing. However, Prasenjit Gupta has done a great job in this context and has been able to original flavor and style of the eminent writer without altering the tone of her language too much. He has retained some Bengali words to maintain the flavor of this beautiful and sweet language and keep the translated work relevant.
The cover page design is simple yet impressive and matches the title of the book perfectly.
Final Verdict: Matchbox – A Collection Of Short Stories
This is a good book for readers of all ages and especially for those who love Ashapurna Debi’s writings and I give it a rating of 4.5/5.
I am participating in #TBRChallenge by Blogchatter and is a part of reading translated fiction activity
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted byCindy D’Silva andNoor Anand Chawlain collaboration with Make a Wish Box.
Hey I was looking for some translated books. Thanks for this recommendation. I also prefer to start with short stories of translated writing.
Great book review! I guess struggle within the family naturally exists not only for women but for everyone in general. It’s simply a part of how life is and what makes life beautiful as it is when we are able to surpass these challenges we become stronger as a person. Well written!
After such a detailed review, I would love to get my hands on this book. I am sure this book will prove to be a valuable resource and help me in my reading journey. Highly appreciated! 🙂
Ashapurna Debi is a legend of Bengali literature. It is so heartening to note that her collection of short stories is translated into English. Will love to read that.
Your reviews force the readers to grab the book. I think matchbox is a book that I would love to read. Your review is all the more engaging
This book review highlights the emotional depth and cultural richness of Ashapurna Debi’s short stories, and praises the translation for its accessibility.
I am so intrigued by the review of the book. I have read few translated stories from Bengali Literature and have loved the narrative of the book. Let me quickly order this one too.
I really like to read short stories and this book looks good to have. Thanks for sharing the honest review for the same
To be very honest, i also like reading something which is relatable and day to day life. Something like a story from next door. Now a days i enjoy indulging in these kinda story rather than friction stories. So i am definitely gonna add this book in my reading list. ❤️ as the experiences of others teaches the best
Your reviews are tantalising and. Make me wanna read this book
You articles constantly increase the size of my tbr I love shoemrt stories and can’t wait to get my hands on this one
It is a nostalgic read, complex emotions, not always straightforward, classy and typically Bengali. I would love to read. Your review is all the more engaging.
I like short stories and as you said not preachy. Totally up my street and you gave it 4.5 ratings. I am surely going to read it.
I enjoy books translated into English. It brings in a wider audience and also gives the readers insights into other cultures.
Translated books often miss the regional flavour of the original but since you’ve mentioned that it has been retained in this book, it seems like a good read. Short stories with strong female characters are bound to be interesting.
Translated books are always a treat for readers who want to experience their room of knowledge with varied literary works. Strong female characters are mostly people don’t prefer to write leaving behind stories of mythological characters where this happens to be the best portrayed or something. But this book I think Will be a different dish on my platter.
Nice review Samata. I haven’t read short stories in a while, that too a translated one. but this looks like a great one to start with. Thank you for the recommendation. The other day at our Society’s book reading hour one lady spoke about a book on the miserable life of the women of Afghanistan. We don’t need to go that far actually… that happens in our country too in almost every community.This book looks like an eye opener.
I recently bought this book and is in my TBR. Reading your review, I’m glad I made the choice to get it.
Its always interesting to read women-centric stories. I haven’t read Ashapurna Debi’s writings however a set of short stories would be a great way to start, will check this book out.
I love the idea of many short stories compiled into one book, for me its like a box of mix desserts you get to taste different flavors in one package.
Enjoyed reading your review. We have so many gems in regional literature that are usually not translated into other languages. Thank you for sharing about the book. I will surely pick it up.
I like to read Bengali literature only in translated form. Complications of 21 stories including a female strong character then it should be must must for me. I really love to read female characters stories they are motivating always. Love your review.
After reading such a comprehensive review, I really want to get my hands on a copy of this book. On my quest to become a better reader, I have no doubt that this book will prove to be an invaluable resource and guide.
Iam a bit vary of translated stories as it can ruin the experience if not done well. But your review makes it look promising. I love stories from Bengal, they have so much depth and sometimes a hint on mystery too.
My mom is a big fan of Ashapurna Debi so the writer herself is enough to make read this compilation. I had never read her work before because I am not that much into reading Bengali but since this has been translated, I would really love to read it.
Thank you so much for introducing me to the book. I have never had a chance to read Ashapurna Debi’s works although I have a working knowledge of Bengali. Adding the book to my TBR.
Slice of life stories are not just great teachers but also a great option to break out of a reading slump. Also liked your format for writing a review.
You bring out some hidden gems. Your review is so beautiful and the organization is quite appealing. Strong women character-centric books/writes have always intrigued me. I will give it a go, thanks for recommending it.
This seems to be a perfect read for me as I like books that take us through everyday life with a hint of the culture of different parts of India.
I am a big fan of Bengali writers and this seems like a nice collection to read. I also like short stories for the variety of tales they convey
I’m eager to read this book after reading such a thorough review. I have no doubt that this book will prove to be a useful tool and aid me in my reading endeavours. Very much appreciated!
This sounds like an amazing book! I would love to read this and I being a non Bengali (as you are too) the English version would be amazing to read.
That would be an interesting read! I always loved to read about women in power and women who break the typical image of a woman which is portrayed by the society. This has become my must read now.
I would love to read this translated version of Bengoli book. I love to read Indian Culture rich books. Will read this next and will share feedback here.
I am not familiar with Ashapurna Debi’s writing but maybe this book is a good place to start!