Book Review: Bestseller by Ahmed Faiyaz

Title- Bestseller

Author- Ahmed Faiyaz

Publisher- Rupa Publications

Genre- Fiction

Format- Paperback

Pages- 190

Year- 2018

Rating- 4/5 stars

So recently I came across a book called "Bestseller" by the bestselling author and independent filmmaker Ahmed Faiyaz which is a fictional work aimed at providing the readers an opportunity to peep inside the dark world of Indian Publishing Industry. The plot revolves around the protagonist Akshay Mathur, a failed author who has recently been sacked from his position as an editor of a U.K based magazine which is on the verge of bankruptcy. He has been sent to India to resurrect a long forgotten publishing house "Kalim Publishing" with the aim of producing at least 5 bestselling titles within a year. The challenge becomes more difficult for him when he realizes the fact that the particular Publishing house neither has an online presence nor a suficient amount of up-to-date employees to run the process smoothly.

He is shocked to observe the unethical practices in the publishing industry and it gives birth to a constant battle inside his mind to either follow his principles or to kill his literary and artistic sensibility and dive into the dirty game of publishing. The things become more complicated for him with the emergence of famous politicians, film stars, wannabe authors and published authors who are determined to get their works published at any cost.

Will he be able to follow his principles?

Will he be able to produce 5 bestselling novels
within a year?

To know the answers grab your copy today.

Review-

The first thing that I liked the most about this book is its unique theme.This is the first time I have read a book which portrays such a vivid picture of the dark side of Indian Publishing Industry. The author has highlighted the issue in a humorous and unbiased manner.

Though I had some prior idea about the unethical practices in the publishing world, what I didn't aware of was the extent these publishing companies go to fulfill their purpose.

Ahmed Faiyaz is a master storyteller and it is evident from his mature writing style. The book has been written keeping in mind the Indian readers and it has successfully achieved its purpose. The language is easy and lucid with the perfect amount of humour, witty remarks and the colloquial writing style makes it an enjoyable read.The plot is well-structured and well-researched with suitable characters.

I give this book 4 stars for its unique theme, well-researched plot and excellent writing style. I highly recommend this book to everyone who has a penchant for reading.