"Stolen Hope" is the third book in the series of "The Game of Life".
After the first two wonderful books from the author in this series, this third book also doesn't disappoint. The story pertaining to "Aranya Kanda" is well presented by the author.
The story in this book starts from Dankaranya forest and ends with Rama searching for a suitable friend to find his "inseparable" consort Sita.
I got a lot of information about various maharishis and history of places like Dandakaranya from this book. I dont remember to have read such details in other versions of Ramayana previously..
While presenting the story line in a lucid manner, the author has not only come out with lessons for life as usual but also brings out the concepts of Srivaishnavism/ Vishishtadvaita philosophy in a crystal clear way.
Examples:-
The author highlights very clearly
1. Rama doesn't kill any one in Sita's presence because she is passion personified . ( This brings out the Karunya of "Sri").
2. Lakshmana is offered the freedom to choose a place of residence at panchavati ( independence) by Rama . Lakshmana renounces any kind of independence and expresses that he is an eternal servant of Rama ( Seshatva) and he does things only as per his masters' wish.
The story, lessons for life and philosophy are presented so lucidly and simply- which makes this book a must read for all categories of readers.
Jatayu not only occupies the cover page of the book but also ends up occupying your heart after you read the book.
Also, the chapter titled "Lakshmana's diary" - deviates from the standard way of story telling of the book and puts out the proceedings through Lakshmana's heart- ( Good attempt by the author..Please read the book to know more:-))
The best learning for me from the book - " Every body has a golden deer in life " :-). so, BEWARE OF THE GOLDEN DEER!
Disclosure:- After reading the previous books , I have become an ardent fan of the author. I was super excited to receive a signed copy of book from the author.!.
