Pakorakorner | A personal portal with a strong Asian Indian flavor on a whole range of topics.

Much has been said about the AQ Khan network over the years, especially since his "confession". Its hard to imagine that he was able to act on his own without the approval of the various Pakistani heads of state. In all likelihood, when Musharraf was under extreme pressure from the US, he decided to make AQ Khan the scapegoat. Its good to know that a letter exists somewhere giving the gory details of those in high places who are ...

Now that he has lost the bid for UN Secy General what does he do next? Does he continue and work for Kofi Annan's replacement? That would be strange, wouldn't it?The rumor has it that the US didn't back his candidacy. Wonder why? Was it because he was considered close to Annan, who is no friend of the US? Btw, Shashi Tharoor's most recent book (published a couple of years back) is titled "Nehru: The Invention of India". Its dedicated ...

The legendary Steve Wozniak's (Apple co-founder) new book is titled "iWoz: Computer Geek to Cult Icon"I always thought of him to be a nerdy guy. The title is a complete turn off --a marketing title more than a nerdy one. He is referring to himself as a cult icon! No matter how great he might be, a little humility won't hurt. Its ok for others to refer to him as "cult icon" and shower him with titles. But doing it ...

Pervez Musharaff easily takes the cake for being the most shrewd head of state in the world. He has managed to remain in power despite the situation in Afghanisthan, his poor relations with India, the volatile situation in Pakistan, his constant need to kiss up the US etc.His book release is another master stroke. He has started controversies all over, like dropping small bombs! Meanwhile, there are rumors of a coup in Pak! President Musharaff clearly belives in ...

Title: For Matrimonal PurposesAuthor: Kavita DaswaniIf you are single, Indian and in the "marriage market", you are certain to enjoy this book. Single Indian women in particular are likely to identify with this book. At the same time, it might be hard for a non-Indians (ie., someone not familiar with Indian culture) to relate to it. The book appears to be autobiographical.The story revolves around an Indian girl from the Sindhi community, grappling with the pressures of marriage from ...

Title: Life of PiAuthor: Yann MartelExcellent book. When I started reading the book I had serious doubts if a book based largely on animals would keep me engaged. I was pleasantly surprised. Extremely well written and very creative. Hats off to the author for such a wonderful novel. The level of detail with which he captures the teenager (named "Pi") growing up in India is impressive. The teenager practicises Hinduism, Islam and Christianity! This leads to some interesting musings ...

Title: The Five People You Meet in HeavenAuthor: Mitch AlbomAnother example, where I was impressed with one book by an author and almost blindly picked up another by the same author, only to be doubly dissappointed. Albom's earlier book, (Tuesdays with Morrie) was extremely well-written and deeply moving. This book attempts to achieve the same objectives but fails to do so in my opinion. The story is about a war veteran who eventually dies in a accident while trying to ...

Title: One Night in A Call CenterAuthor: Chetan BhagatI enjoyed reading "Five Point Someone" written by the same author. I thought that was a good debut novel. Most importantly it appeared genuine and had a very personal feel to it. When I heard about the author' second book I was naturally inclined to read it. Unfortunately, this effort is a dismal attempt to re-create the success of his first book.Once again, the author chooses a story revolving around ...

Title: Tuesdays with MorrieAuthor: Mitch AlbomThis a moving true story of the last days of a terminally ill Professor. The Author is a sports writer and a former student of the Professor. Its an easy read that I strongly recommend. The contrast between the author who is leading a fast paced life while constantly interacting with his Professor whose time is limited makes the book that much more interesting and engaging. The writing style is simple yet very effectively ...

Title: Five Point SomeoneType: FictionAuthor: Chetan BhagatThis is a book based on life at IIT. It revolves around three guys who meet at IIT and become great friends through their four years at IIT. They end up as "bottomers" (based on grades) and hence the name "Five point someone" (five point referring to their GPA).The book is a very easy read, and perfect for a long plane ride. The author has a very casual writing style. He does a wonderful ...