I bought this book as soon as I was halfway through the original Zaviya by Ashfaq Ahmed. While this book, like the first Zaviya, is also based on, and is in fact a transcript of, the original show by the same name that was broadcast on Pakistan Television in the 90s, it is much different compared to the first book.
While the first Zaviya was based mostly on experiences and anecdotes from Ashfaq sahab's youth, and were generally set in Europe, Zaviya 2 mainly delves into his experiences much later in life. The themes change from stories of naivete to those of continued learning as a middle-aged and older man.
However, while the first book was a delightful read throughout, this one has subtle undertones of bigotry which didn't sit well with me. Throughout the book, Ashfaq sahab hints at communal and provincial issues like the bid to build Kalabagh Dam, making it feel like a government propaganda piece. Given his history of thriving through the military dictatorship of General Zia though, one shouldn't be surprised. Also, while the first book read like it was written for everyone who wished to read it, I couldn't help but feel alienated while reading the Punjab-centric, and sometimes bigoted and sexist writing of the second.
For some reason, this book was much easier to read, even though it still reads like a literal transcript of the TV show. Overall, "Zaviya 2" offers insights into a bygone era, while making you feel like not much has changed. If you decide to skip this one though, it wouldn't be the worst thing.