Title: Twenty-nine going on thirty
Author: Andaleeb Wajid
Publisher: Penguin Books
Pages: 242
Price: Rs. 250
Well, whoever said that what you see isn’t always true was quite true. ‘Twenty-nine Going on Thirty’ is one such book that will get you caught up with so many emotions at once. The story revolves around four girls whose lives have been a roller coaster ride since day one.
What brings them together are their ‘problems’. From being each other’s backbone to bickering over trivial issues, it’s a beautiful mess you wouldn’t want to miss. Each character has a different role to play and the author has managed to create a beautiful balance of each.
The lead character, Priya, is a meddlesome but for the good. While finding comfort in the fact that she and her friends Farida, Mini and Namrata are approaching the three-O milestone too, they witness a diverse range of everyday scenarios.
Not one day passes by when they have nothing to ponder over. It’s a book every girl can connect to. Family drama, boy trouble and their fast-approaching birthdays have been the foundation of their friendship.
Things become to look up for Priya when she bumps into her charming new neighbour, Ajay. Sparks fly, but she soon discovers that he’s a widower and comes with his own baggage.
Meanwhile, we see the transition in shy Namrata and everyone is taken aback. Whereas feisty Mini is not how Priya assumed her to be…she’s tough but kind at heart. She’s a true feminist and never scared to raise her voice against injustice. But then, you can’t always have the best of both the worlds, thus, Priya’s best friend, free-spirited and easy going Farida is stuck between her long lost love and family crisis.
It’s a heart-warming tale of growing up when you’ve already grown up. It’s witty, wonderful and one of the most entertaining romances you’ll read in a while. You turn; another heartbeat skips with the thought of what will happen next making it an enjoyable read. It might have been a happy ending for some and others might have moved on for the best, but the story stays with you for long.
Nevertheless, the book doesn’t miss a single chance to leave you thrilled. This book has found a place in my library and is sure to be there till the very end.
