From the author of Boy, Bear, a poignant story that has stayed with me, comes The Scent of Roses, a book about fear, grief and loss. This latest hOle book by Adithi Rao is made all the more beautiful by Krishna Bala Shenoi’s brilliant illustrations.
When Sajad’s Abu disappears, his Mauji and Badebub try to fill the gaping hole in his life. But it isn’t enough. The terrifying Bram Bram Chok takes over, pushing Sajad to act in strange and unpredictable ways. For instance, he loses his temper and shouts at Jabbar, who is fourteen years old and cannot even recite the nine-times table. He feels remorse, of course, for he knows how simple and innocent Jabbar is. But what can Sajad do to quieten Bram Bram Chok? Can he just escape?
The Scent of Roses reminds us of the impossibility of running away from grief. And yet, the problem with grief is that it erupts in the most unpredictable ways–anger and resentment. Above all, Sajad can’t cope with the sense of injustice, and Bram Bram Chok, that evil monster, keeps raising its monstrous head in his chest.
What I loved most about the book is the illustrations. I love Krishna Bala Shenoi’s work, and the story comes alive through the pictures. We see Sajad and Bram Bram Chok, and every emotion on every character’s face is achingly beautiful. Adithi Rao’s story comes together with these stunning pictures to create a slow, gentle sense of empathy and acceptance.
| Title | The Scent of Roses |
| Author Illustrator | Adithi Rao Krishna Bala Shenoi |
| Tags | hOle book, Chapter Book, Grief |
| Rating (out of 5) | 4 |
| Ages | 8+ |
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