Blue nectar 

Shomenath Dutta 

Publisher : Blackletters 

Blackletter's first English book Blue nectar by Shomenath Dutta. 

In 1964, a family's life shatters when the shadow of political unrest forces them to flee their ancestral home in Jessore. Blue Nectar by Shomenath Dutta is an enthralling saga of a family's quest for belonging and identity in a world that is constantly shifting. The story centers on Neel, a young boy whose childhood is abruptly ended by a painful departure and an unspoken lie.

As a refugee in the chaotic streets of Kolkata, Neel navigates a new reality with his family, led by his determined mother, Meera, and his father, Anil, who struggles to rebuild their lives from nothing. Anil's journey is one of bitter resignation and eventual triumph, as he transforms from a man of means into a tenacious businessman.

The book beautifully captures the tension between the old and new worlds through Neel's eyes. His fascination with the city is sparked by an American, John, whose presence in his village challenges his father's traditional beliefs and ushers in a new era of possibilities.

From a village boy mesmerized by the "storm" of Kolkata to a man who endures betrayal, imprisonment, and personal loss, Neel's life is a testament to resilience. The narrative is rich with themes of love, betrayal, and the unbreakable bonds of family, ultimately showcasing how hope can be found even in the most challenging circumstances. 

This isn't just a story about a family; it's a profound exploration of what it means to be human in the face of an uncertain future.