There’s a common sentiment that the more we talk about God, the less we truly understand. It’s like searching for answers in a maze of questions, all while hoping for a sign, a whisper, a hint that we’re not alone in our quest. This is exactly the kind of emotional turmoil and reflective exploration Hi God, How Are You brings to the forefront. Written by Manoj Kumar Sharma, this book is a deeply introspective look at faith, innocence, and the search for meaning. Sharma is no stranger to tackling complex themes, but this novel takes a bold step into uncharted territory—blending innocence with sharp social critique. It’s a debut that’s both contemplative and daring.
Hi God, How Are You follows a young, specially-abled child, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery through an intimate conversation with God. The narrative is framed as a one-sided dialogue, where the child asks questions not just about faith, but about society, politics, morality, and the future. In his quest for understanding, the protagonist begins to explore themes that most adults would shy away from. From politics to societal expectations, the child’s innocence is contrasted with the harsh realities of the world around him. It’s a beautifully surreal yet grounded exploration of how spirituality and reality often collide in unexpected ways. While many might expect a typical coming-of-age story, this book breaks conventions by asking deeper, sometimes uncomfortable questions about human existence, responsibility, and the future of our society.
Manoj Kumar Sharma’s writing style is, for lack of a better word, effortlessly engaging. The prose flows smoothly, but what truly stands out is the voice of the protagonist. Sharma successfully captures the unfiltered purity of a child’s perspective while embedding complex societal and philosophical questions. This blending of innocence and depth creates a unique narrative rhythm, keeping the reader engaged even as the subject matter grows heavier. The use of simple yet powerful language makes the book accessible while maintaining a thought-provoking depth that appeals to a wide audience. The dialogue with God feels authentic and raw, which creates an emotional connection that draws the reader in.
The characters in Hi God, How Are You are more than just vessels for the plot—they serve as mirrors to the world around them. The protagonist, though a child, feels like a voice of reason, asking questions adults often overlook. His simplicity serves as a contrast to the complexities of the world. The central idea of having an open, candid conversation with God brings a fresh perspective to religious discourse. Rather than being bogged down by formalities or expectations, the protagonist’s approach to spirituality is honest and questioning, providing readers with an opportunity to examine their own faith. This exploration of belief and morality is seamlessly woven into the character’s development.
The plot structure is non-linear yet intuitive. The book’s pacing is steady, allowing for both moments of reflection and bursts of narrative energy. What’s especially effective is how Sharma allows the protagonist’s questions to guide the flow of the book, creating a natural ebb and flow between dialogue, philosophical reflection, and emotional growth. While the plot doesn’t follow a traditional arc with twists and turns, it’s compelling in its own right due to the weight of the questions being asked. The unfolding of these questions adds layers of complexity to the story, which keeps the reader invested until the very end.
At its core, Hi God, How Are You tackles themes of faith, innocence, and the societal structures that shape us. The book invites readers to question not just their personal beliefs, but the very nature of religion and spirituality in a world that often seems to ignore its true meaning. The protagonist’s questions—simple yet profound—force us to confront uncomfortable truths about the world around us. Through this spiritual journey, the book explores how politics, caste, and morality intersect, and how these issues impact the future of individuals and nations. The story’s use of symbolism and allegory is subtle but powerful, enriching the narrative.
What truly makes this book stand out is the emotional impact it leaves behind. There’s something deeply moving about the protagonist’s unwavering belief in the possibility of change, even when faced with overwhelming societal issues. Moments of joy, sorrow, and frustration feel real, and the dialogue with God, at times, is so tender and vulnerable that it’s hard not to reflect on your own personal conversations with faith. The book stirs feelings of both discomfort and hope, reminding readers that sometimes, the simplest questions can lead to the deepest revelations.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its ability to balance deep introspection with moments of levity and humor. The unique structure, where the protagonist is engaged in a personal dialogue with God, invites readers to think deeply about spirituality without feeling overwhelmed. The language is accessible, yet the themes are mature, making this an ideal book for anyone interested in faith, society, and self-awareness.
While the book is rich in introspective moments, there are instances where the narrative could have benefited from a bit more structure or editing. Some sections feel a bit repetitive, and certain moments could be more polished in terms of punctuation and pacing. However, these are minor distractions in an otherwise solid read.
For me, Hi God, How Are You was a deeply reflective read. I found myself pausing to think after nearly every conversation the protagonist had with God, and it led me to reevaluate some of my own beliefs. It’s not just a book, it’s an invitation to look inward and engage with the bigger questions of life. The innocence of the protagonist, combined with the weight of the questions he asks, made for a reading experience that felt personal, and at times, profoundly moving.
Hi God, How Are You is a thought-provoking, reflective, and emotionally resonant journey that blends innocence with deep societal critiques. With a unique narrative structure and a candid look at spirituality, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore faith, morality, and the human experience in a new light. Highly recommended for those who are ready to confront tough questions and look at the world with fresh eyes.
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