Bala Takes The Plunge

As someone who've loved Melvin's quirkly style of puns largely centered around mad word play for over 10 years now, I got to say, the book doesn't disappoint at all. Do NOT read this for a great plotline or a twist in the tale or as a great literary classic, it makes absolutely no such pretentions. The book is meant to be a fun joyride on a lazy afternoon while lounging around in a cozy sofa. The characters are well-etched with all their witty eccentricities which makes me suspect of a movie in the making. I especially liked the dad, with his series of malapropisms, all of which are even more funny since he's totally convinced he's right all the time and the dog America, who does have a large, though silent, impactful part to play in the larger scheme of things. I strongly recommend the book and once you're done with it, you can hop over to Melvin's blog and read a few of the delightful nonsense there as well :-) Go for Bala, now!

I had bought 2 copies for my friends in Chennai before I finally got one for myself as I knew this book is a blast to give and read.

I'm not Indian and I would like to learn more about the Indian culture and this book, despite being funny, is probably the best and the only required reading if you are traveling to India or if you'd like to have good conversation to people you know from India.

I have dog eared many pages most of them of course funny lines or anecdotes and some of them are in the native language which I can use as a signature message like "Nee virumburavalai kattikiruthai vida unnai virumburavalai kattikitta un vazhkkai santhoshama irrukkum."

Looking forward to a follow-up!

btw, this book costs only a "finger and a toe" so, grab a copy now!

I have been reading Melvin's columns for more than a decade now. So, when he came out with the book, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. The book is a laughter riot, but at the end it also brought a tear or two to my eyes, when Bala actually takes the plunge! I must also commend Melvin/Kedar with the work on the book cover. It's different!
Way to go Melvin. Look forward to more such books from you in the future.
Cheers,
Rakhi

I picked this up because it looked like a nice, easy read for a two-hour flight. I hadn't heard of Melvin Durai or read his columns earlier and the book was my first introduction to his writing--and what writing! I had to keep from emitting loud snorts and giggles on the plane. An absolutely wonderful book--I could totally relate to it. Funny and sensitive, it shows great insight into Indian culture/thinking.

I have never missed any column by Melvin Durai. I decided to buy Melvin's book
Bala Takes the Plunge. Melvin has as usual punched humor for almost every
line. I enjoyed reading the book. I wonder how sitting on the other side of
the globe he can exploit our Idiosyncrasies for his humor. Look forward to more
of his books.