Book Review: October Junction

I want to begin by writing that I pre-ordered this book. This should be a clear indication of how high my expectations are from Dubey and his writing. This is his latest work and I think I have managed to read all of his writing in the past one year. I find his writing engaging. Most of these can be classified as young adult stories but unlike many of the other young adult writers, Dubey’s stories have a maturity to them. The characters are complex but the complexity is not exaggerated. One would find a bit of himself or herself in almost every character. In October Junction, the story teller is part of the story. And like I have written in an earlier review, this brings in a unique quality of being able to hear him telling the story in his own characteristic way.

Before this, I read two of his short story collections, and reading this one has reaffirmed my belief that I like novels better than short stories. The plot of October Junction has been developed well.
The two protagonists have a chance meeting in Banaras and choose to stay in touch over a period of years, albeit only once a year. The richness of their relationship comes from the lack of definition and labels. Their lives continue to unfold separately and together. The developments of each year are capsuled well. I was a bit disappointed with the ending. This seemed more theatrical than required. It took away the real worldly character from the story. I also liked the subtle way in which ghost writing has been brought to the forefront. More people need to know about this as about the power of marketing in making a best seller.

An interesting start to 2019!