A Mind Needs Books

Interaction with Salil Desai on 30th March '15 - reported by Shama Vijayan

The greatest sensation of achievement is in being the “first” in accomplishing an extraordinary feat. Salil Desai, Pune based author of crime novels in the English language, has achieved this incredible distinction in being the “first” Indian author who has succeeded in putting Pune on the “Crime Fiction Map.” 

So what is Salil Desai’s secret formula?  The participants at the Book Club discussion were highly intrigued and curious to know.  Their enthusiasm grew when Salil Desai appeared in person and there was  a barrage of questions that he had to face.  To a query on why he chose to write crime novels, he replied, “Crime happens all the time and everywhere in the world.  I did extensive research by reading, studying and visiting the workings of the Pune Police.  I discovered the policeman’s method of investigation could be very gory, tedious and exhausting and stifle the “plot”.  I have tried to avoid such pitfalls in my writing and  focus more on the absurd and  blundering  police procedures.”  This, he feels, adds humour to the plot and makes it more readable.  

Desai’s approach to crime is based on observation of everyday crimes. He applies his mind, inspiration and imagination to gather insights into criminal minds.  There is plenty of suspense and red herrings thrown in  to stimulate and distract the minds of the readers so that the criminal remains undetected to the end.

Salil Desi read excerpts from “Cul-De-Sac,”  one of his short stories in “ Lost Libido.” Deepak Morris and Chetan Shetty entertained everyone and amused the author  by narrating 2 of the stories in the collection, namely “Hunch On a Highway”  and “Who Strangled Sharma?”.

Desai’s latest release is the “Murder of Sonia Raikkonnen: an Inspector Saralkar Mystery.”

Reported by: Shama Vijayan

THE BOOK CLUB

will meet on

MONDAY 27th April 2015

at 6.15 pm

at the U S Library, Poona Club

to discuss

Room

by

Emma Donaghue

The story is from the perspective of a 5 year old boy

held captive in a small room along with his mother.

It is a truly memorable novel, one that can be read through myriad lenses:

psychological, sociological, political.

Mehvash Peerbhoy

 will lead the discussion.

Do come & bring other book lovers along.