BOOK REVIEW: Becoming the Light

– By Asang Jamir

The landscape of Naga literature has always been unique – folktales and scholarly books has dominated the literary scene. We need to credit the author, Allan Aley, for his vivid imagination, creative plunge and originality in creating a Naga super hero saga. It is a foreign concept, but the invention is purely Naga by blood and heart. “Becoming the Light” brings a wave of new-ness and it opens gateways for young writers to experiment with their daring ideas. The story has an international appeal, it would be wonderful if the book is adapted into a series or an animated movie. But the author needs to build denser plots for it to hit the home run.

The book is about a young man named Molung Ki, who undertakes a quest to solve an apocalyptic wipeout. It is a redemptive journey of a young man to undo the wrongs of the past, correct the present and build a thriving future. The elements of dreams, vision and spirits helps the author to build multiple subplots which are intriguing and linear. The themes of ancestral blessing and magic realism, whether they’re consciously explored or simmering under the surface- beautifully adds depth and layers to the story. This is one major reason why I love fiction.

The philosophical thoughts presented in the book are beautiful and quotable. There are plenty of captivating ‘one-liners’, ‘phrases’, ‘paragraphs’ which stirred my emotions to the core. The use of ‘imagery’ words are splendid. The zingy and subtle humor in the dialogue are quite hilarious. It made me wonder whether the author imprinted aspects of his personality into his characters or they reflected his belief system. Either ways, it was beautiful.

My favorite characters in the book was Molung Ki and his grandmother. The protagonist is a representation of a common man, an underdog. He doesn’t fit into the cliché “role-model” superhero characters. His insecurities, confusions and his thirst for purpose makes Molung Ki relatable and real because at the crux of our life, humans, are always seeking for a purpose.

Grandmother is cute, sweet, adorable and a heartwarming character. She reminded me of my own grandmother. Her special appearances in certain scenes illuminated my being and gave me hope even as the protagonist was stuck on his wit’s end. My only complaint- I wish she had more screen time!

The plots and subplots are beautifully interwoven but the pace of narration was quick. However the story gripped my attention and kept me turning for pages.

I seriously wished the pages to increase in number!
I respect the author’s intention of knowing how much to offer at first serving. I feel “Becoming the Light” is an introduction, a backstory of what is more to come. I hope the sequel will answer all my questions and satisfy my fantastical curiosity.

Would I recommend this book?
Definitely! Our first Naga superhero needs a louder introduction and a warmer reception.

Rating: 4/5