Returning to your roots

Annie Zaidi's latest elicits nostalgia for the people and places you've left behind

- GARIMA SADHWANI

How often is it that while reading a book or watching a movie or a show, you absolutely fall in love with a character who is not the conventional hero or heroine of the story? If your answer is never, I'd suggest you pick up Annie Zaidi's latest novel, The Comeback. With a premise that elicits nostalgia, crisp dialogues, and everyday characters that you relate with, the book makes for an interesting read.

The story revolves around actor John K (or Jaun Kazmi, who, as an estranged friend of his says, only goes by a screen name because he worries the original 'would be less appealing to the masses') who finally gets a break in mainstream cinema after years of doing small roles and gigs on sets. In a 'fateful' interview, he blurts out many stories, one of which costs his college best friend Asghar his job and puts his life in reverse gear. But accustomed to making difficult choices, Asghar attempts to take back control, albeit in an unconventional way.