Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities by Manjula Padmanabhan

Hachette India. Hardcover. NEW. In the captivating collection of stories titled "Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities," author Manjula Padmanabhan presents a thought-provoking array of imaginative tales set in inventive futures while simultaneously capturing the essence of today's world with flair and ingenuity. With twenty-five exhilarating narratives, Padmanabhan takes the reader on a journey through realms inhabited by rebellious cellphones, lustful holograms, a tourist vampire with a peculiar penchant for spicy Indian blood, and even a conference of galactic gods. Each story presents a unique twist on familiar reality, inviting readers to question the very fabric of our society and contemplate where we are headed as a collective. The author's storytelling prowess shines in each story as she presents a wide range of scenarios, from bejeweled party guests unexpectedly stripped naked to a teenager who has the ability to steal time from others. These tales push the boundaries of our imagination, offering a blend of science fiction, societal commentary, and philosophical musings. One of the standout stories within this extraordinary collection is a reflection on the impact of technology on our lives. In this narrative, rebellious cellphones become a central theme, representing how technology has taken control over our daily existence. Padmanabhan provocatively explores the notion of individual autonomy in a world where even the most seemingly insignificant devices can dictate our actions and decisions. Another notable tale delves into the concept of lustful holograms, raising questions about the boundaries of virtual reality. With this story, the author stimulates our minds to ponder the potential consequences of blurring the lines between the physical and digital realms. However, it is the story of a tourist vampire with a taste for spicy Indian blood that truly captures the reader's attention. This narrative serves as a metaphor exploring the exploitation of cultures and the commodification of traditions. The vampire's insatiable desire for spicy Indian blood raises questions about cultural appropriation and the impact of tourism on local communities. Padmanabhan skillfully weaves together a myriad of themes throughout this remarkable collection. In one story, she introduces mosquitoes that infect people with Gandhian pacifism, challenging readers to contemplate the transformative power of ideologies. In another, she creates a dystopian future where the very air we breathe is canned, shining a light on the consequences of environmental degradation and the potential realities that await us if we do not address our current challenges. Through her unique blend of humor, provocation, and profundity, Padmanabhan masterfully crafts a collection of stories that demand introspection and evoke a sense of urgency. "Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities" tantalizingly poses gripping questions about our society and its direction. Readers are left pondering what it truly means to live in today's world and contemplating the paths we are forging for ourselves. In conclusion, "Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities" is a captivating work of science fiction that immerses readers in a tapestry of inventive futures. With a dash of ghee and a sprinkling of dark matter, Padmanabhan's writing holds readers captive until the final page, leaving them with a renewed sense of curiosity and a hunger for the answers to the urgent questions posed within its pages.