SUNSHINE DAYS

Sidd is likable and well-rounded. Your descriptions are vivid. You have an artist's eye for important details and you make excellent use of that talent in your writing. Not only can I see the people and places in your story, I can also hear, smell, feel and taste them. You use your narrative masterfully to reveal thoughts and feelings. Your dialogue evokes the sub-continent and enriches your story. Your pacing kept my attention riveted. This is a well-executed, capitvating memoir. Backed.

An story that touches the core of human emotions and sings paeans of the indomitable hope that dwells deep in every heart. A Great book with potential of being recognized as a classic in near future.

Siddharth

Sunshine Days - The grim day made a difference, deepened you to reflections on your life, made you share a perspective of the ascending middle class in India, made you ask the question 'who am I'
... it was heavier than air, so it was virtually walking through the neighbourhood roads ... soundlessy seeping into closed houses through gaps in the doors and windows ... by the time you smell it it's too late ... Fifteen to twenty-thousand lives were lost in one single night ...
What made you survive? You ask. Was it the indefatigable spirit, the belief in yourself and the future, instilled by your mother? Whatever the cause, you're here to tell your story and celebrate what can be achieved with a positive attiitude and determination, and you do it in a humble and self-effacing style, which touches.

I may have backed this before but do so again, with pleasure. Pia (Course of Mirrors)

Siddhartha, I enjoy the way you approach such a devastating topic. The narrator (you) speaks in a poetic voice while never making light of the topic. You also bring up survivor's guilt at the end of your first chapter, which I have been reading a lot about with earthquake and hurricane victims in the Americas. Even with couples when a spouse dies of cancer or another disease, the survivor lives with guilt.

I recall hearing also about the Union Carbide tragedy many years ago, though I have never read a first-person encounter of the tragedy until reading your book (chapters from your book). Perhaps, you survived so that you could write this memoir and in your gentle manner tell the rest of the world about a dark event that took place because a corporation cut corners. You certainly have a gift as a writer.

Sadly, American companies especially are known for cutting corners, especially in foreign countries or impoverished regions of the US.

Oddly enough near where I live a boiler at an oil refinery blew up recently killing half a dozen people. The real tragedy is that we rely so heavily on chemicals, especially petro-chemicals and jobs that derive from working for those chemical companies, that human life loses its dignity and worth.

Patricia
All Saints' Day

This is another example of the significance of non fiction, it gives valuable insight to a tragic event and the way you survived. The book then very skilfully addresses your childhood and teaches us about different aspects of cultural diversity, and how you conquered the struggles of life in India and managed to change negatives to positives. This has been an inspiring read, and draws respect from the reader for the author. It has been well thought out and the authenticity is appealing. An educating and entertaining account.

Backed with pleasure.

Lisa

Many thanks, Siddharth, for backing "The Doctor of Summitville" and for calling my attention to your narrative. I've only read the first chapter, but it was enough to convince me of your talent and the value of your experience in the Bhopal disaster. You're absolutely correct in noting that few people fully appreciated or even knew of the tragic event, and you've rendered a vivid description that should be widely disseminated. I'll have to read more to see how far you've gone into the matter, but I hope to learn more about it, especially from an educated survivor. Soon I'll have read all you've written and will return to comment in more detail.

Gratefully, Bill

superbly written, runs like a film show., makes a part of it to live the situations.will give hope to the nuber of struggling family/ persons. BACKED WITH 5 STAR- VINU

superb !! Written straight from the HEART. Must read for all the struggling youngs , to believe themselves. determination & hope makes the sucess irrespective of adversities. Special salute to parents for their suffering though it is hidden.

HI Sidd: I am very drawn to your pitch. I want to read a book about t-he courage and triumph over adversity. People are truly fascinating. backed.please take a look a mine if you can, lynne avery

Siddharth

Many have forgotten that this was the worlds worst industrial disaster in which over 15.000 people lost their lives.
Your writing is an epitaph to those people , a reminder to stir the conscience of the people in power who have never addressed the issues of compensating the poor. impoverished sufferers who have never had a voice, and adequately prosecuting those responsible.

You have a strong voice and the ability to convey emotion and elicit empathy.

Jane

Very interesting. Good job. Backed.

SUNSHINE DAYS
A poignat first person narration of a disaster victim surviving to struggle and to continue the God-given life journey. "Why not me?" is a relevant question, rarely raised and never attempted to be answered. Well written. Thought provoking. Incidentally, topical. Backed.
TMN
"NEVER LOSE..."

Really well done, I wish you the best of luck with it. E.Loraine Royal Blood Chronicles book one

Sorry it took me so long to comment - this is extremely powerful and well-written, and I wish you the best of luck with it. Backed with pleasure!

Heidi Marshall
More

The value of this story, lies in Sidd's ability to look at himself and his life with a good sense of observation and a benevolent and staunchly optimistic look at himself. I especially liked the description of the Bhopal disaster in the beginning, and also (having worked in theatre projection myself) the description of the outdoor movie house. The story is told in an almost journalistic way, which can be difficult at times, but the character, the background, and the reality of it all makes it worth backing! I did not read all ten chapters unfortunately.

A chilling prolouge and well developed charcters that make us want to keep reading. C W

Sidd is likable and well-rounded. Your descriptions are vivid. You have an artist's eye for important details and you make excellent use of that talent in your writing. Not only can I see the people and places in your story, I can also hear, smell, feel and taste them. You use your narrative masterfully to reveal thoughts and feelings. Your dialogue evokes the sub-continent and enriches your story. Your pacing kept my attention riveted. This is a well-executed, capitvating memoir. Backed.

Siddarth, chilling prologue - your confusion, panic and fear well described. Backed. CW (To Save the Sun)

In the light of your moving and dreadful account of those tragic events, any reference to typing mistakes or grammatical weaknesses wouldc really be quite irrelevant...this is so shocking that I'm not sure how to deal with the emotions it inspires. I hope this book gets into print
Stewart

Siddharth, I was eager to read this book because of the subject matter. Your short pitch makes it seem as if it’s an autobiography, which I would hope it is, but of course, that’s not a necessity. It does make a difference to your MS though. And autobiography of a tragic event is valuable in itself, and this event of Union Carbide was a horrible event in history. I can read an autobiography and shrug off minor mistakes, knowing that it comes from a regular guy. In this particular case, it likely comes from a regular guy who doesn’t have English as a first language. If I come across some minor errors, it actually helps the MS for me, because it sounds real, spoken as if from ‘the horse’s mouth.’ However, if this is fiction, then the author has to present accurate facts and a pristine MS.
Which of the two this is, I don’t know, except for the fact you have it listed as non-fiction. So getting to the point, I can say that I was mesmerized as I read into the daily life that either you or your MC lived. The poetry was perfect, and your tone very conversational, entertaining. There are some minor issues, for example, in your prologue, the par starting with “By the time... gently hanging and floating at (the) ground level...”
Once you start your account – par “After revising...” you mention ‘I’ repeatedly. Watch for repetition. Later in the par, you say “...poem of the same name written by an ancient and one of the most revered poet, Kalidas.” Perhaps, “...poem written by one of the most revered poets from our past, Kalidas.”
“By no stretch of the imagination COULD I visualize...”
As you can see, these are minor issues, and your English is far better than I would have expected. Authonomy is a great place to get help, which I would guess would be your primary reason for being here. Perhaps you can ask friends on here to edit a chapter, while offering your opinions on theirs. I have done this a number of times, and my MS is far better for it.
I really hope you get this help, as this story is one that needs to be told. I really feel this has potential to get published, and I wish you the best!
Backed.

Paul ( www.pauldaytonscifi.com )

We’ve Seen the Enemy

Thanks Paul, yes, It is a true story and yes, English is not my first language. I appreciate suggestions about improving MS especially those related to grammar - Siddharth Bajpai

Somehow comforting, and frightening in the same time. Inspiring and good emotional depth. Cookie 'Being'

Siddharth, I was eager to read this book because of the subject matter. Your short pitch makes it seem as if it’s an autobiography, which I would hope it is, but of course, that’s not a necessity. It does make a difference to your MS though. And autobiography of a tragic event is valuable in itself, and this event of Union Carbide was a horrible event in history. I can read an autobiography and shrug off minor mistakes, knowing that it comes from a regular guy. In this particular case, it likely comes from a regular guy who doesn’t have English as a first language. If I come across some minor errors, it actually helps the MS for me, because it sounds real, spoken as if from ‘the horse’s mouth.’ However, if this is fiction, then the author has to present accurate facts and a pristine MS.
Which of the two this is, I don’t know, except for the fact you have it listed as non-fiction. So getting to the point, I can say that I was mesmerized as I read into the daily life that either you or your MC lived. The poetry was perfect, and your tone very conversational, entertaining. There are some minor issues, for example, in your prologue, the par starting with “By the time... gently hanging and floating at (the) ground level...”
Once you start your account – par “After revising...” you mention ‘I’ repeatedly. Watch for repetition. Later in the par, you say “...poem of the same name written by an ancient and one of the most revered poet, Kalidas.” Perhaps, “...poem written by one of the most revered poets from our past, Kalidas.”
“By no stretch of the imagination COULD I visualize...”
As you can see, these are minor issues, and your English is far better than I would have expected. Authonomy is a great place to get help, which I would guess would be your primary reason for being here. Perhaps you can ask friends on here to edit a chapter, while offering your opinions on theirs. I have done this a number of times, and my MS is far better for it.
I really hope you get this help, as this story is one that needs to be told. I really feel this has potential to get published, and I wish you the best!
Backed.

Paul ( www.pauldaytonscifi.com )

We’ve Seen the Enemy

The use of the Bhopal tragedy is a solid attention getter and you do a great job at building and satisfying curiosity with descriptions and expereinces of your characters. This sets a fine stage for the trials and tribulations that come later.

This is a very compelling story. The incidents of the night are horrific and yet subdued, as in any disaster seen at ground level. I would suggest you work with an English speaker as some of the writing is repetitious and cliched. That is not to say that it is written badly, but that it could be written in manner that would be more accessible since you have chosen to write in English.

For instance, you repeat how horrific, terrible and devastating the incident is. Stating it once is sufficient. Let the actions say the rest, otherwise the story becomes preachy. For instance, "...safeguard cheap Indian lives..." That is preachy. You need not state it that way, but let the facts speak for themselves and allow the reader to draw their own conclusions about the value of human life. That would be much more effective.

Example: I survived.

I escaped with watery, red eyes and congested lungs. My eyes bothered me for a few more months, but my lungs were so damaged they still trouble me.

I lived.

Fifteen to twenty thousand men, women and children died that night coughing, their lungs and eyes burning. Many, mostly children, were overcome in their sleep.

Keep the sentences sharp and short. Don't repeat things about the gas. Let the facts stand. Keep it simple and your words will have more power and a more chilling effect, at least for this part of the story. Stark and bare.

JMC
Among Women

Thank you for asking me to read this. I do appreciate it and

Very inspiring and young people should learn never to give up even when life is difficult. I could see this being used for school reading. Backed!

NJ Capaldi
Crescent Heart

Siddharth,
What a heartrending story, one that needs to be recorded because that night needs to be remembered. Your poignant descriptions tell of fifteen thousnd people killed--that is equivalent to an entire mid sized town. That you escaped is a miracle. Best of luck with this.
KC Hart
Summer Rose

I found the work was written in a believable style leading one to believe that it was written by the person. I am happy to back it.

I am very impressed with this the optimism this portrays is fantastic, inspirational.
I have really enjoyed what I have read of this, so much when time allows I will come back to this. – Great read. – Good luck!

Your story is well written, well paced and deeply touches many emotions. Your use of imagery is excellent and your descriptive writing style makes your finely crafted novel a very moving read. Backed.

Andrew Burans
The Reluctant Warrior: The Beginning

Siddharth,
The travesties of greed-driven capitalism are legion. This is one of the worst, least justified of the shamefull lot. thank you for so meticulously laying out the unfolding tragedy of Bhopal.
Capitalism without morality and ethics soon becomes inhuman. We all need to remember this lesson and your story helps us realize this with certainty. kudos.
SC
(Viene La Tormenta)

Amazing, well done, I wish you the best of luck with it. E.Loraine Royal Blood Chronicles book one

SUNSHINE DAYS

Dear Siddharth,

This is a wonderful story and I truly appreciate how you have captured it into words.
It sits on my shelf proudly.

A Zoomer
Going Out In Style

nit pick: take a look at all your "ings" some say they are to be used sparingly.

Siddharth, another tear from the heart from me. Loved your words, the emotions it raises, the hope , the love, courage and what potential all have no matter what. in my book I say " THE ONLY THING YOU HAVE ABSOLUTE CONTROL OVER IS YOUR ATTITUDE" This book is this last sentence from mine in action BRAVO and I am honored to have shared this book. My book is non-fiction also and I would absolutely love you to read some and please comment on it, I value that. and if you so desire to back it and shelve it. BEST of luck

Excellent writing style and emotional content makes for a compelling read - considering it's nonfiction, this is unique. BACKED -Elizabeth Wolfe (Memories of Glory)

What a chilling experience. Your writing flows with the reality of this culture and situation. I found myself intrigued to keep reading. Well crafted. Backed.
Jenny

Very well done. This is an eye opening work that needed to be written!

Hi Siddharth. I don't have time for a proper review, but I'll make a couple of quick comments on your prologue.

By the way, this looks to be a powerful story. I hope that you include a LOT of local color. Readers love to read about foreign lands and societies. If you can include a large amount of Indian culture and customs, you will have a powerful selling point in addition to your main theme.

>> Afterwards, it was claimed that an alarm bell did sound, but it was quickly silenced <<

Passive voice is almost always inferior to active voice. Here, you open your novel with two passives in one sentence. This is especially problematic in such a potent statement. I strongly suggest that you change both of these to active voice (perhaps using "The Company" and "they" as subjects.) If you don't understand what I just said, google passive voice and study it.


>> So, by the time you smell it, it is too late. It is the smell of death. <<

Great line


Of the first six sentences of your first chapter (right after the prologue), five of them used "I" as a subject. Experts warn against this, considering overuse of "I" as the most dangerous aspect of first-person writing. I suggest that you revise this to use I less frequently, especially in this early part of your book, where editors and agents will judge you.


>> Escaped gases started killing adults and children silently <<

I was glad that you began your chapter with a personal scene, and your next paragraph continue this. But this paragraph between them feels out of place. It's an information dump. As a reader, I wanted to just continue with the personal scene.


I skimmed the rest. I love the detail that you present. That makes it interesting. All I suggest is that you try to reduce your use of "I" and include a little more human emotion. I see in your bio that you are a scientist. It shows in your writing. You have a strong tendency to favor facts over emotions. In a novel like this, you probably should shift the balance a little, even though it will not come naturally at first.

I once saw a writing book with a title like "Creating Emotion in Characters" or something like that. You might want to seek out such a book and study it.

Hope this helps.

Sandy Samson

An story that touches the core of human emotions and sings paeans of the indomitable hope that dwells deep in every heart. A Great book with potential of being recognized as a classic in near future.

excellent human story.
despair can lead to a success.

Hi Siddharth,

This is a compelling story, which I think you executed well. It’s very powerful and worth the read. Some polishing would certainly make it flow smoother, but I still found it a riveting read.

Shinzy :)

SUNSHINE DAYS:

Not a light topic to tackle and you have done it justice. There will be some who would suggest a good edit is needed to iron out errors in gramma or minor spellings (typos). Take note of these things because they help to 'sell' the story, but take care not to loose the power of the story you tell. Do not water it down to tckle ears. the message is strong and it deserves to be treated in this way.

backed

Rev Raven Scott (Love is a colour too) If you have time to visit my book pleae do so. I enjoy even the harshest of comments, thank you.)

Your story telling is compelling and makes me want to read on. What a horrific experience this must have been. I feel with some editing of punctuation and other issues, e.g. an effective killing weapon, not a effective, you will have a winner and I wish you the best of luck. Backed for its potential. Lynne, Brooklyn Bridge.

Dear Siddharth,
This must have been a difficult story for you to write. I could feel your emotions as you wrote from your heart about this really sad and tragic time.

I am backing your book so that more people will get to read it.
I wish you all the very best with your book.

Warm regards,
Manolya-Love in No-Man's Land

Wow! I just kept reading and reading! Mesmerising stuff, lovely, lovely prose. Brammers (The Kingdom Within)

Wow! I just kept reading and reading! Mesmerising stuff, lovely, lovely prose. Brammers (The Kingdom Within)

Wow! I just kept reading and reading! Mesmerising stuff, lovely, lovely prose. Brammers (The Kingdom Within)

Sorry for the short comment but this is powerful stuff my friend. A strong read for just after work with a coffee!

Backed

Pete

Sunshine Days is an important story that needs to be told. Non-fiction is not my usual read so it's hard for me to say anything about the commercial value of this book. It is a heartfelt story that paints a vivid picture of a life we Americans can scarcely imagine. Your writing style is very different and lends an authenticity to the story but cleaning up some of the errors would help. Like at the beginning of section 2... I think you mean "quiet" not "quite". Backed for the important content the editing is easy to fix.

Pamela Frost
aka scatteredfrost
Houses of Cards

This is very good and not what I was expecting from the pitch. I didn't know about the Bhopal Disaster before I read this, but you tell it very compellingly and in a way that's effective whether the reader already knows about it or not, and with little flashes of humor, like the narrator worrying about getting back in time for his exam when he should be worrying about the gas. I'm happy to back this.

Siddharth,

Your first chapter is a moving account of a dreadful event - a truly cautionary tale. I would like to feel that I knew more of you as a person through this - what would you tell me about this man, if he wasn't you? It sounds very factual, and I know that is probably because it is true, but if you want me to live it with you, it has to have more of the descriptive detail of good fiction.

Grammatically, you need to watch for a tendency to miss out the word 'the'. There are sentences like "The hospital was crowded with living..." Living is an adjective. It is only when you say 'the living' that you turn it into a noun, or more accurately, a gerund. A tricky bit of English grammar, but worth sorting.

Backed, for a powerful story with huge potential.

Rachel

A powerful opening - the context of the story is immediately set and immediately resonates, creating interest right from the start - the writing is strong and compelling. Excellent opening.

An important and terrible disaster that we need to be reminded of. It must have been terrifying to live through and your story brings this vividly to our minds.

Thanks for sharing this,

Amanda

when someone uses the quotes as you have, one suspects that they have chosen a good book to read...you have taken care with this and it satisfies. good work...
su dan [seasons]

I can tell you that I've got pulled in your story right from the begining and kept on reading. You told it so well that I can feel the emotions of every character in it. Add to it that this is about real life events it just makes this that much compeling. Loved it! Backing it with pleasure!

Zrinka (Rose of Crimson)

Siddhartha, I enjoy the way you approach such a devastating topic. The narrator (you) speaks in a poetic voice while never making light of the topic. You also bring up survivor's guilt at the end of your first chapter, which I have been reading a lot about with earthquake and hurricane victims in the Americas. Even with couples when a spouse dies of cancer or another disease, the survivor lives with guilt.

I recall hearing also about the Union Carbide tragedy many years ago, though I have never read a first-person encounter of the tragedy until reading your book (chapters from your book). Perhaps, you survived so that you could write this memoir and in your gentle manner tell the rest of the world about a dark event that took place because a corporation cut corners. You certainly have a gift as a writer.

Sadly, American companies especially are known for cutting corners, especially in foreign countries or impoverished regions of the US.

Oddly enough near where I live a boiler at an oil refinery blew up recently killing half a dozen people. The real tragedy is that we rely so heavily on chemicals, especially petro-chemicals and jobs that derive from working for those chemical companies, that human life loses its dignity and worth.

Patricia
All Saints' Day