Bhupendra M. Gandhi

Ivory Tower: a Collection of Short Stories Bhupendra M. Gandhi

This book represents my life long work. From my childhood I was interested in writing. Some of the stories were written a long time back, now adapted to suit this day and age.

There are 31 stories but no two stories are similar. Each has its own particular theme, plot and subject matter. It would be hard to find such diversity in one book. There are stories on ghosts, reincarnation, child prostitution, crime, social, cultural and religious theme and background.

As most stories have Asian or Indian background, I was at first some what apprehensive. But many, who read this book, including some critics, assured me that with such variety, diversity and easy to understand, pleasing on eyes writing style, it makes no difference.

If some one asks me, which one is my favourite, it would be difficult to answer but if pressed, I have to say Ivory Tower is my favourite. The plot is simple yet touching, bringing back memories of my childhood days spent in idealistic Africa, during colonial era, a favourite read among East Africans.

Then there is Midnight Mystery. Practically the whole story is telephone conversation between a young man and a woman who had never met, with a twist in the tale.

Kismat (destiny) is another of my favourites. It has a wonderful background of tea estate and unexpected ending. Some stories have poems, as part of the plot. I feel it gives a distinct flavour and individuality not so common in modern writings.