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MUDSLINGING and other short stories
Mudslinging and other short stories is an anthology of short stories. It is a work of fiction, based on everyday life experiences and observations. It depicts the various faces of our society very evident to everyone yet most conveniently ignored by all. It will not be incorrect to say that it is a depiction of our society with all its ills and imperfections. The protagonists or characters are common people caught in the whirlwind of circumstances some beyond and some in their control, testing them, trying them as they endeavor to change their luck or most often acquiesce to circumstances, considering it as their fate. Bound in the shackles of society with its peculiar ethos the stories try to lay bare the truth. There are stories based on the dual yet imperceptible nature of people incapable of changing their habits, displaying lack of ethics and morals, having a God complex about their abilities, yet with a definite air of self-righteousness. And in between these horrid depictions is the image of society displayed due to socio-economic imbalances and deprivation, following the rule of might is right. A few light humored stories depict the feelings of characters while they try to find love, togetherness or solace in their wanton behavior. These are everyday events which mean to send a strong message to the reader about our machinations while ignoring the principles set forth by the deity or deemed as being acceptable in a cultured society.
144 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2021
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12 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 23, 2022
'Mudslinging and Other Short Stories" by Nauman Afzal is his quite impressive debut novel with eleven fictitious tales; thus a remarkable attempt to depict various anthropological flaws which are deeply ingrained in our societies whether collectively or individually. These stories highlight how different immoral societal values and religious flaws have not only disintegrated society as a whole but also diminished the tiny grain of humanity on an individual level.
The way in which the writer has mentioned how a human being tends to forget his countless other blessings and becomes ungrateful just in a time of a certain small distressful situation by using an analogy of a plant which thrives on despite in tough surroundings is indeed praiseworthy. As well as, he commendably quoted about how people holding high-level designations in government institutions disguise their selfishness and personal interests under the term of 'public interest'; to achieve their personal agenda covertly. How dishonesty and bribery have destroyed the very foundations of our institutions which are necessary for any country's prosperity.
Sincerity is lacking in every other human relationship- be it a family member or a friend. Irrational beliefs, as well as religious sectarianism, have long been prevailed in our society which caused the divide among its members culturally and socially. All these issues have been beautifully highlighted by the writer.
The book is written in simple and readable English. My most favourite stories are 'Pani Agaya' and 'Mudslinging'. I finished this wonderful book in just one sitting with my cuppa tea.
I am very grateful to the writer for his kindness to send me this book for review in exchange for an honest review.
The way in which the writer has mentioned how a human being tends to forget his countless other blessings and becomes ungrateful just in a time of a certain small distressful situation by using an analogy of a plant which thrives on despite in tough surroundings is indeed praiseworthy. As well as, he commendably quoted about how people holding high-level designations in government institutions disguise their selfishness and personal interests under the term of 'public interest'; to achieve their personal agenda covertly. How dishonesty and bribery have destroyed the very foundations of our institutions which are necessary for any country's prosperity.
Sincerity is lacking in every other human relationship- be it a family member or a friend. Irrational beliefs, as well as religious sectarianism, have long been prevailed in our society which caused the divide among its members culturally and socially. All these issues have been beautifully highlighted by the writer.
The book is written in simple and readable English. My most favourite stories are 'Pani Agaya' and 'Mudslinging'. I finished this wonderful book in just one sitting with my cuppa tea.
I am very grateful to the writer for his kindness to send me this book for review in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2022
Mudslinging is a novel which comprises of short stories. The main idea or theme of them are mostly centered around issues of Pakistani society.
It was a short read for me as it consists of 144 pages. So it’s gonna be a short review. But I really enjoyed it a lot. Each story was full of comedy, criticism and beautiful lessons.
The plot first focuses on the point that humans are the best creation of Allah but they keep on hurting each other. So writer uses various plant and animal kind of characters to emphasize on this point.
“How could someone be best while hurting others?”
Secondly, this novel also highlights the issue of corruption in society especially corruption in government organizations. This issue is highlighted in various chapters but my favorite one regarding this is Peela Peela.
Despite corruptions at government level, corruption or you can say dishonesty at individual level and in relationships is described in an appealing manner.
“But what I really hope is that we leave this world being in the company of our loved ones. For what else is life without love?”
Another thing I loved about this book is that the stories are mostly set in serene city of Islamabad. As Islamabad is my favorite and beloved city that’s why this novel made me rate it as 5 stars.
Thankyou so much Moon light Book tours and Nauman Afzal for providing me opportunity of becoming a tour host and for the signed book too.
It was a short read for me as it consists of 144 pages. So it’s gonna be a short review. But I really enjoyed it a lot. Each story was full of comedy, criticism and beautiful lessons.
The plot first focuses on the point that humans are the best creation of Allah but they keep on hurting each other. So writer uses various plant and animal kind of characters to emphasize on this point.
“How could someone be best while hurting others?”
Secondly, this novel also highlights the issue of corruption in society especially corruption in government organizations. This issue is highlighted in various chapters but my favorite one regarding this is Peela Peela.
Despite corruptions at government level, corruption or you can say dishonesty at individual level and in relationships is described in an appealing manner.
“But what I really hope is that we leave this world being in the company of our loved ones. For what else is life without love?”
Another thing I loved about this book is that the stories are mostly set in serene city of Islamabad. As Islamabad is my favorite and beloved city that’s why this novel made me rate it as 5 stars.
Thankyou so much Moon light Book tours and Nauman Afzal for providing me opportunity of becoming a tour host and for the signed book too.
July 29, 2022
This book was provided by the author. It was extremely kind of him to do so. I would like to thank him first.
"Mudslinging" was an amazing book with valuable short stories. Seeing the state of Muslims around the world and the visible deflection from the right morals has made me question myself, "Where are we headed?"
Fortunately, this book highlights the loss of moral values of Muslims in the modern era. We are just bound by Western philosophies and blindly following them. This just breaks my heart. If one is wise, they could certainly pick some good lessons from this book.
This book is witty, sarcastic and full of irony. I have annotated it and loved it so much. My favourite short story was "Musalman hoon mein."
There were a few typos in this book. Im hoping the author could get it checked. Apart from that, this book is highly recommended.
"Mudslinging" was an amazing book with valuable short stories. Seeing the state of Muslims around the world and the visible deflection from the right morals has made me question myself, "Where are we headed?"
Fortunately, this book highlights the loss of moral values of Muslims in the modern era. We are just bound by Western philosophies and blindly following them. This just breaks my heart. If one is wise, they could certainly pick some good lessons from this book.
This book is witty, sarcastic and full of irony. I have annotated it and loved it so much. My favourite short story was "Musalman hoon mein."
There were a few typos in this book. Im hoping the author could get it checked. Apart from that, this book is highly recommended.
Read
August 7, 20213.5⭐
Mudslinging and Other Short Stories by Nauman Afzal is, as the name indicates, a collection of short stories unveiling the ugly face of our society (quite mercifully, if you ask me).
🧩This is a book I'd been patiently waiting for someone to write. It's a book that chooses to "speak up". It's a book that chooses to "stand up" and fight for what's morally right. It's a book that doesn't shy away from bringing up the unspoken, taboo topics. It's a book that doesn't conform to the "rules" of our society. It's a book that chooses to deviate from what's considered "okay" and it is a book that points out what needs to be changed.
🧩What evils this book talks about are something that are ingrained in our society with such beauty that we often not even consider it wrong. We choose not to pay heed to that hideous part of us. We choose to stay silent.
🧩We ALL know what goes around in our country. We all know how a lot of "institutions" work. But we're much too horrified to deviate from the "norms".
🧩This book felt like listening to my dad's "life talks". When you're the daughter of an honest hard-working man working nine to five in an office, you know these stories. I could relate to everything in the book. It felt like I had already read it before because it hit too close to home.
🧩In a nutshell, my inner moral person loves this book.
🧩The writing is plain and simple. It's to the point without unnecessary details. It covers different topics. My absolute favorite one was the last short story named "Peela, Peela".
🧩A few points:
▪️There are some mistakes in the book.
▪️I think the short story "Mudslinging" should've been the first in the book (as it is in the title).
▪️In my opinion the short story "SMS Love" devalued the book. It did add "variety" to it but the value of a book is more important than the variety of the book.
🧩I'd like to thank the author for sending me the copy of this book and I'd urge him to write a lot more of such pieces. I'd love to add them to my bookshelf!
Mudslinging and Other Short Stories by Nauman Afzal is, as the name indicates, a collection of short stories unveiling the ugly face of our society (quite mercifully, if you ask me).
🧩This is a book I'd been patiently waiting for someone to write. It's a book that chooses to "speak up". It's a book that chooses to "stand up" and fight for what's morally right. It's a book that doesn't shy away from bringing up the unspoken, taboo topics. It's a book that doesn't conform to the "rules" of our society. It's a book that chooses to deviate from what's considered "okay" and it is a book that points out what needs to be changed.
🧩What evils this book talks about are something that are ingrained in our society with such beauty that we often not even consider it wrong. We choose not to pay heed to that hideous part of us. We choose to stay silent.
🧩We ALL know what goes around in our country. We all know how a lot of "institutions" work. But we're much too horrified to deviate from the "norms".
🧩This book felt like listening to my dad's "life talks". When you're the daughter of an honest hard-working man working nine to five in an office, you know these stories. I could relate to everything in the book. It felt like I had already read it before because it hit too close to home.
🧩In a nutshell, my inner moral person loves this book.
🧩The writing is plain and simple. It's to the point without unnecessary details. It covers different topics. My absolute favorite one was the last short story named "Peela, Peela".
🧩A few points:
▪️There are some mistakes in the book.
▪️I think the short story "Mudslinging" should've been the first in the book (as it is in the title).
▪️In my opinion the short story "SMS Love" devalued the book. It did add "variety" to it but the value of a book is more important than the variety of the book.
🧩I'd like to thank the author for sending me the copy of this book and I'd urge him to write a lot more of such pieces. I'd love to add them to my bookshelf!
![Profile Image for Khulood [IG:Khulogophile_reads].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1628630661i%2F60321494._UX200_CR0%2C111%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 2, 2021
*PR Book Review*
✨"Mudslinging and other short stories" is a great book written by @nauman.afzal16, which is a collection of short stories, each short story contains Desi titles that are relatable and each title has represented our society beautifully. the collection of stories is based on daily life that we observe and experience in our surroundings. for example issues like mudslinging, rishwat, flirt or harassment, secterism, corruption,etc.
✨Bitter truth of our lives have been portrayed in this book that was well written and relatable and trust me it wasn't boring at all. i enjoyed each story i didn't want it to finish and i hope the author would be coming with more short stories like these. The book makes the reader realize that how we have normalized these issue in our daily lives that we don't find them as serious issue but as a common thing. it has become a part of our lives that we started neglecting them and we don't discuss them openly.
✨i really loved reading it and the language was so good,i did notice some minor mistakes but never mind. the story and idea was awesome. the good thing about Pakistani literature is that we local readers can relate to it and we find it a good read. all the stories were quite engaging and I'd highly recommend Reading it.
.
✨Thank you @nauman.afzal16 for sending a review copy of your debut book. hope to see more from you.Good luck 🥰💕
✨"Mudslinging and other short stories" is a great book written by @nauman.afzal16, which is a collection of short stories, each short story contains Desi titles that are relatable and each title has represented our society beautifully. the collection of stories is based on daily life that we observe and experience in our surroundings. for example issues like mudslinging, rishwat, flirt or harassment, secterism, corruption,etc.
✨Bitter truth of our lives have been portrayed in this book that was well written and relatable and trust me it wasn't boring at all. i enjoyed each story i didn't want it to finish and i hope the author would be coming with more short stories like these. The book makes the reader realize that how we have normalized these issue in our daily lives that we don't find them as serious issue but as a common thing. it has become a part of our lives that we started neglecting them and we don't discuss them openly.
✨i really loved reading it and the language was so good,i did notice some minor mistakes but never mind. the story and idea was awesome. the good thing about Pakistani literature is that we local readers can relate to it and we find it a good read. all the stories were quite engaging and I'd highly recommend Reading it.
.
✨Thank you @nauman.afzal16 for sending a review copy of your debut book. hope to see more from you.Good luck 🥰💕
October 10, 2021
[i got a physical copy of this book courtesy of @mbooktours on instagram + the author.]
excerpts:
“And that when intentions and actions are good prayers are seldom needed, for that is the essence of life.”
“That feeling of being abandoned is the worst feeling one can experience. It is like an invisible wound that sits on your chest and gives you a blow with every breath you take. It is a constant unceasing torture, the likes of which i have never experienced, nor do i wish should anyone experience.”
“You know the funny thing is you tell your own kind to be faithful like a dog and yet when you have to swear at someone you either call him a dog or a woman a bitch.”
[wondering why so few? okay, hear me out: first of all, this is a short book, plus one that shows us a very petty face of our society. granted, it's so real and all, but i couldn't find more than a few excerpts that i loved so much that i wanted to share. that's NOT a bad thing, i'm not saying. and these few excerpts i love so much! especially the second one. i hope you enjoy them, too. xx]
excerpts:
“And that when intentions and actions are good prayers are seldom needed, for that is the essence of life.”
“That feeling of being abandoned is the worst feeling one can experience. It is like an invisible wound that sits on your chest and gives you a blow with every breath you take. It is a constant unceasing torture, the likes of which i have never experienced, nor do i wish should anyone experience.”
“You know the funny thing is you tell your own kind to be faithful like a dog and yet when you have to swear at someone you either call him a dog or a woman a bitch.”
[wondering why so few? okay, hear me out: first of all, this is a short book, plus one that shows us a very petty face of our society. granted, it's so real and all, but i couldn't find more than a few excerpts that i loved so much that i wanted to share. that's NOT a bad thing, i'm not saying. and these few excerpts i love so much! especially the second one. i hope you enjoy them, too. xx]
July 25, 2021
This is the first book of @nauman.afzal.16 . As the title suggests , it is an anthology of short stories. There are total eleven stories and each strings a different cord. The writer seems a really good observer and knows how to portray emotions.
🔖The writing style is so simple yet engaging.
🔖There is a variety in stories. Some are emotional, some point out the greed and selfishness of humans, some bring forth the corruption and evils that have corrupted our institutions in a way that , this seems the only way.
"ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴀɪᴛʜꜰᴜʟ ʙᴇʟɪᴇᴠᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴅɪᴠɪɴᴇ ʜᴇʟᴘ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ᴇꜰꜰᴏʀᴛꜱ ᴏʀ ɪɴᴛᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴꜱ."
"ɪᴛ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴀꜱ ɪ ʀᴇᴀʟɪᴢᴇᴅ ᴀ ʀᴀᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ, ɢᴇᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ, ʀᴀᴛʜᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ɢɪᴠᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ, ᴄᴀʀᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ."
🔖The characters in these stories are so living. You just turn your head and you can find one around you or may be you are one of them.
🔖The stories make you think and ponder over things you may have overlooked before.
"ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪꜱ ɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ꜰᴏʀ ᴍᴇ ɪꜱ ᴀʙɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ꜰᴏʀ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀɴᴅ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪꜱ ɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ꜰᴏʀ ʏᴏᴜ ɪꜱ ᴜɴᴀᴄᴄᴇᴘᴛᴀʙʟᴇ ꜰᴏʀ ᴍᴇ."
🔖Although the stories point out the evils yet the tone of the book is not pessimistic.
"ꜰᴏʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴇʟꜱᴇ ɪꜱ ʟɪꜰᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʟᴏᴠᴇ"
🔖There are points when you think that yeah I was thinking the same thing, only I didn't know how to put this.
🔖It's a short book and you can easily read it in a day.
🔖The writing style is so simple yet engaging.
🔖There is a variety in stories. Some are emotional, some point out the greed and selfishness of humans, some bring forth the corruption and evils that have corrupted our institutions in a way that , this seems the only way.
"ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴀɪᴛʜꜰᴜʟ ʙᴇʟɪᴇᴠᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴅɪᴠɪɴᴇ ʜᴇʟᴘ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ᴇꜰꜰᴏʀᴛꜱ ᴏʀ ɪɴᴛᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴꜱ."
"ɪᴛ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴀꜱ ɪ ʀᴇᴀʟɪᴢᴇᴅ ᴀ ʀᴀᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ, ɢᴇᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ, ʀᴀᴛʜᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ɢɪᴠᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ, ᴄᴀʀᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ."
🔖The characters in these stories are so living. You just turn your head and you can find one around you or may be you are one of them.
🔖The stories make you think and ponder over things you may have overlooked before.
"ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪꜱ ɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ꜰᴏʀ ᴍᴇ ɪꜱ ᴀʙɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ꜰᴏʀ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀɴᴅ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪꜱ ɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ꜰᴏʀ ʏᴏᴜ ɪꜱ ᴜɴᴀᴄᴄᴇᴘᴛᴀʙʟᴇ ꜰᴏʀ ᴍᴇ."
🔖Although the stories point out the evils yet the tone of the book is not pessimistic.
"ꜰᴏʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴇʟꜱᴇ ɪꜱ ʟɪꜰᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʟᴏᴠᴇ"
🔖There are points when you think that yeah I was thinking the same thing, only I didn't know how to put this.
🔖It's a short book and you can easily read it in a day.
October 9, 2021
|| 𝕽𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 ||
❝𝐵𝑜𝑟𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑢𝑑, 𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑢𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑢𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡'𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑛 𝑀𝑢𝑑𝑠𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔?❞
||𝕾𝖚𝖒𝖒𝖊𝖗𝖞||
"Mudslinging and other short stories" is a debut book of Nauman Afzal. The title is quite self-explanatory. This is a collection of short stories related to our daily life. This book featuring 11 stories that range from greed, corruption, selfishness, and blame games to helplessness, minority's problems, and mudslinging. This book elicits many emotions. These short stories are dynamic and fresh, with evocative language that artfully blends the contemporary issues of our society with fiction.
||𝕾𝖙𝖔𝖗𝖎𝖊𝖘||
𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙞 𝘼𝙜𝙖𝙮𝙖: A story about human beings and their complaining nature that his much we are ungrateful and never appreciate small things.
𝘿𝙝𝙖𝙞 𝙁𝙚𝙚 𝙎𝙖𝙙: This story talks about how the government departments aren't doing their work properly but getting an expansion in their salary every year.
𝙈𝙪𝙙𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜: A story having a message about how everyone in our society doing mudslinging and makes malicious allegations about our opponent just to show ourselves better than others and to damage other people's reputation.
𝙇𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙈𝙖𝙣: A heart-wrenching story about a lonely man how's his only son left him and thinks selfishly. And how after providing everything to his son he ended up in an old age home.
𝙆𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙖 𝙆𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙞: It's a delightful story whose protagonist is Dog who tells that how loyal dogs are and way better than humans in loyalty and obedience of their loved ones.
𝙈𝙪𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙃𝙤𝙤𝙣 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙣: It talks about the sectarian hatred and strife that turns out as communal violence.
𝙋𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙖 𝙋𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙖: A story that addresses the issues that people face while getting their rightful pension.
|| 𝕸𝖞 𝕽𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 ||
I kinda love this book because of the extremely powerful stories with great lessons. There's nothing new or something that has never been told before, but never with such freshness and fictional way. There are some other stories as well like Thurkee uncle(eeee I feel so enraged by such boomer uncles), SMS love(how love turns into gold-digging these days), and many others. This is a short book that indicates that story’s power and influence have nothing to do with length or stylistic flourishes to mark its impact.
|| 𝕸𝖞 𝕽𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖓𝖌 || 4/5⭐
❝𝐵𝑜𝑟𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑢𝑑, 𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑢𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑢𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡'𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑛 𝑀𝑢𝑑𝑠𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔?❞
||𝕾𝖚𝖒𝖒𝖊𝖗𝖞||
"Mudslinging and other short stories" is a debut book of Nauman Afzal. The title is quite self-explanatory. This is a collection of short stories related to our daily life. This book featuring 11 stories that range from greed, corruption, selfishness, and blame games to helplessness, minority's problems, and mudslinging. This book elicits many emotions. These short stories are dynamic and fresh, with evocative language that artfully blends the contemporary issues of our society with fiction.
||𝕾𝖙𝖔𝖗𝖎𝖊𝖘||
𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙞 𝘼𝙜𝙖𝙮𝙖: A story about human beings and their complaining nature that his much we are ungrateful and never appreciate small things.
𝘿𝙝𝙖𝙞 𝙁𝙚𝙚 𝙎𝙖𝙙: This story talks about how the government departments aren't doing their work properly but getting an expansion in their salary every year.
𝙈𝙪𝙙𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜: A story having a message about how everyone in our society doing mudslinging and makes malicious allegations about our opponent just to show ourselves better than others and to damage other people's reputation.
𝙇𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙈𝙖𝙣: A heart-wrenching story about a lonely man how's his only son left him and thinks selfishly. And how after providing everything to his son he ended up in an old age home.
𝙆𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙖 𝙆𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙞: It's a delightful story whose protagonist is Dog who tells that how loyal dogs are and way better than humans in loyalty and obedience of their loved ones.
𝙈𝙪𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙃𝙤𝙤𝙣 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙣: It talks about the sectarian hatred and strife that turns out as communal violence.
𝙋𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙖 𝙋𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙖: A story that addresses the issues that people face while getting their rightful pension.
|| 𝕸𝖞 𝕽𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 ||
I kinda love this book because of the extremely powerful stories with great lessons. There's nothing new or something that has never been told before, but never with such freshness and fictional way. There are some other stories as well like Thurkee uncle(eeee I feel so enraged by such boomer uncles), SMS love(how love turns into gold-digging these days), and many others. This is a short book that indicates that story’s power and influence have nothing to do with length or stylistic flourishes to mark its impact.
|| 𝕸𝖞 𝕽𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖓𝖌 || 4/5⭐
August 30, 2021
It is a fiction based it consist of short stories based on reality and the writer do a great job
🌸"Dhai fee sad"
This story is revolve around when government increase the salary and everyone was so happy.
✨Hukamdad: is a clerk in road communication department.
✨ Mr Ahmed Khan: was the head of road and communication department. He was very polite and their juniors respect him.
✨Mirza sahib: is a big constructor and has a biggest construction company. He was uneducated.
✨Jam Ali Shabbir: minister of communication. All his life he had worked hard and get to the position.He is very honest man.
✨ Samreena: was the city enhanctress. She was middles person but she was very happy.
🌸"Mudslinging"
This story is revolve around character assassination.
✨Abdul hameed: he is a joint secretary. He lives in Islamabad and he spent 27 years of life in this beautiful city.
✨Asad: was the son of rich businessman and he is in a relationship with Aliza and she is a doctor.😍
✨ Karim buksh aka haji Sahab: he was a chairman of commerce and industry. He was very religious man.
✨Malik Sahab: he was the owner of vast land of southern Punjab. And they have a lot of lands.
🌸"rishwat khor"
This is the story of Intezar Hussain he was doing a government service job.He never betray from his job and neither he likes to take bribes.🙂
🌸"Lonely man"
There was a lonely man😔 he is 70 years old.he spend very peaceful life. He has had a kid name zohaib but he is not obedient to his father.
🌸"Sarkari afsar"
This story is revolve around electricity bill.
✨Dr Shahid: he was a doctor and this time his electricity bill has too much.🙊
🌸"Kutta Kahani"
This is the story of a dog 🐶whose master kept him very well, and this dog is so obedient to his master and listen everything.
🌸"Thurkee uncle"
This story is revolve around thurkee uncle.😜 He is so aged but he is still attracted towards girls and womans.🤪🙃
🌸"Mosalman Hoon Mai"
This story is belongs to Syed amir Hossain Shah. He was a doctor 👩⚕️in US and his job is tough but paid good money.
🌸"Peela peela"
This story is revolve around pension file of Islam ud-din. He was naib qasid in ministry office.☹️
🌸"Dhai fee sad"
This story is revolve around when government increase the salary and everyone was so happy.
✨Hukamdad: is a clerk in road communication department.
✨ Mr Ahmed Khan: was the head of road and communication department. He was very polite and their juniors respect him.
✨Mirza sahib: is a big constructor and has a biggest construction company. He was uneducated.
✨Jam Ali Shabbir: minister of communication. All his life he had worked hard and get to the position.He is very honest man.
✨ Samreena: was the city enhanctress. She was middles person but she was very happy.
🌸"Mudslinging"
This story is revolve around character assassination.
✨Abdul hameed: he is a joint secretary. He lives in Islamabad and he spent 27 years of life in this beautiful city.
✨Asad: was the son of rich businessman and he is in a relationship with Aliza and she is a doctor.😍
✨ Karim buksh aka haji Sahab: he was a chairman of commerce and industry. He was very religious man.
✨Malik Sahab: he was the owner of vast land of southern Punjab. And they have a lot of lands.
🌸"rishwat khor"
This is the story of Intezar Hussain he was doing a government service job.He never betray from his job and neither he likes to take bribes.🙂
🌸"Lonely man"
There was a lonely man😔 he is 70 years old.he spend very peaceful life. He has had a kid name zohaib but he is not obedient to his father.
🌸"Sarkari afsar"
This story is revolve around electricity bill.
✨Dr Shahid: he was a doctor and this time his electricity bill has too much.🙊
🌸"Kutta Kahani"
This is the story of a dog 🐶whose master kept him very well, and this dog is so obedient to his master and listen everything.
🌸"Thurkee uncle"
This story is revolve around thurkee uncle.😜 He is so aged but he is still attracted towards girls and womans.🤪🙃
🌸"Mosalman Hoon Mai"
This story is belongs to Syed amir Hossain Shah. He was a doctor 👩⚕️in US and his job is tough but paid good money.
🌸"Peela peela"
This story is revolve around pension file of Islam ud-din. He was naib qasid in ministry office.☹️
August 26, 2021
As the title suggest, this book is a short stories collections. All the short stories are based on life experiences and observations. It throws light on issues that we all know exist, but we choose ignore them. No society is perfect, and neither is the society we live in. Acknowledging the flaws is the first step in omitting them, and this book makes us confront some wrongs in this society.
Each story in this book deals with a conflict, external or internal. It shows us how certain actions can have certain consequences. It portrays a very accurate image of the world we live in, and that is something we rarely get to see in a work of fiction. The characters in this book are all kinds of people, bad people, good people, good people turned bad, good people with bad lives. Although another thing this book portrays well is that people can't really be put into boxes of good and bad, because life isn't black and white.
My personal favourite short stories from this book were Kutta Kahani, SMS Love, The Lonely Man, and Musalman hoon mein. Kutta Kahani was a story where the main character was actually a dog, so cool right? SMS Love was a very hilarious take on how romantic relationships work nowadays, as the title suggests. The Lonely Man was a story about a old man left alone by his son, who left for the US. And Musalman Hoon Main is a short story which I personally think you should go in blind as it is the most impacful one.
Each story in this book deals with a conflict, external or internal. It shows us how certain actions can have certain consequences. It portrays a very accurate image of the world we live in, and that is something we rarely get to see in a work of fiction. The characters in this book are all kinds of people, bad people, good people, good people turned bad, good people with bad lives. Although another thing this book portrays well is that people can't really be put into boxes of good and bad, because life isn't black and white.
My personal favourite short stories from this book were Kutta Kahani, SMS Love, The Lonely Man, and Musalman hoon mein. Kutta Kahani was a story where the main character was actually a dog, so cool right? SMS Love was a very hilarious take on how romantic relationships work nowadays, as the title suggests. The Lonely Man was a story about a old man left alone by his son, who left for the US. And Musalman Hoon Main is a short story which I personally think you should go in blind as it is the most impacful one.
January 29, 2022
Mudslinging is the anthology of fictional short stories. The stories bring up the topics which we experience in day to day life.
The stories give out meaningful messages, through the feelings/behaviour of the characters or through the light humour the author used to highlight an important point.
My favourite short story was "Mudslinging" and "Pani agaya".
I truly enjoyed reading these short stories. The writer has done an amazing job making the characters relatable. The setting of the stories and the problems faced by the characters, being similar to what we usually see in Pakistan, made me more interested in the book.
The stories give out meaningful messages, through the feelings/behaviour of the characters or through the light humour the author used to highlight an important point.
My favourite short story was "Mudslinging" and "Pani agaya".
I truly enjoyed reading these short stories. The writer has done an amazing job making the characters relatable. The setting of the stories and the problems faced by the characters, being similar to what we usually see in Pakistan, made me more interested in the book.
August 7, 2021
Mudslinging is a collection of short stories that are very close to real life. The author has depicted human nature in the best possible way. When reading, you could really relate the book characters to real life humans around you.
The writing style is very simple with stories flowing smoothly. You could feel someone talking to you and sharing their life stories with you.
I found the political stuff little boring and did not understand half of it maybe because I'm not really into it. But if you're someone who would love to read about it, give this book a chance.
I would recommend Mudslinging to you all. It is not even 150 pages long, so that would make a great company while you enjoying your evening tea!
The writing style is very simple with stories flowing smoothly. You could feel someone talking to you and sharing their life stories with you.
I found the political stuff little boring and did not understand half of it maybe because I'm not really into it. But if you're someone who would love to read about it, give this book a chance.
I would recommend Mudslinging to you all. It is not even 150 pages long, so that would make a great company while you enjoying your evening tea!
September 28, 2021
I love how this book sheds light on a lot of issues with the people of our country in a funny way. All the stories are unique and convey important messages if we dig deeper to grasp them. My favorite story from the book is " Pani Agaya". I felt every word of it.
The language and the writing style of this book is so simple and easy to pick and it is short, only around 142 pages !!
I enjoyed reading it.🌸
The language and the writing style of this book is so simple and easy to pick and it is short, only around 142 pages !!
I enjoyed reading it.🌸
July 2, 2021
As I have the honor to proofread the book, So I may claim that I am the first one to read and review the book or one of the first ones. Stories are good, especially the first one and the kutta kahani. Some are very depressing, some leave the reader thinking, actually wondering .. It is a good read :)
October 8, 2021
“What is normal for me is abnormal for you and what is normal for you is unacceptable for me.” Nauman Afzal
As the name suggests, this book is a collection of short stories, each story highlighting some of the norms of our society that are evident to everyone yet we choose to ignore them.A society where honesty is slowly fading & where no one is willing to help without expecting something in return.A society where corruption is a pandemic, where privileged ones keeps on suppressing their subordinates, where religion is used as an excuse for bad behaviour & ignorant beliefs.A society where children abandon their parents when they need them the most. Is this the society we are aiming for?
The author has beautifully highlighted all these aspects through different characters facing different situations in which they have to choose between right and wrong but norms of the society forces them to choose the wrong path as it is the easy way out. My favourite story was THE LONELY MAN. I never highlight a book(that’s a SIN for me) but there were some lines that touched my heart so deeply that I was left with no other option.
The only issue I had that I felt that the stories were sort of incomplete. Where was KARMA and justice? While reading the story “Thurki uncle” I prayed silently that he fells into gutter on his way home but he reached home safe & sound. I know sometimes it takes years for justice to be served. But it is always there & someone who is doing wrong will get punish if not today,then tomorrow definitely and a book should give us this ray of hope.BUT THAT’S MY OWN PERSONAL OPINION.
To summarise it is a well written and short read which can be easily finished in 1-2 settings & that will make you think that why we act blind to all the wrong doings around us.
As the name suggests, this book is a collection of short stories, each story highlighting some of the norms of our society that are evident to everyone yet we choose to ignore them.A society where honesty is slowly fading & where no one is willing to help without expecting something in return.A society where corruption is a pandemic, where privileged ones keeps on suppressing their subordinates, where religion is used as an excuse for bad behaviour & ignorant beliefs.A society where children abandon their parents when they need them the most. Is this the society we are aiming for?
The author has beautifully highlighted all these aspects through different characters facing different situations in which they have to choose between right and wrong but norms of the society forces them to choose the wrong path as it is the easy way out. My favourite story was THE LONELY MAN. I never highlight a book(that’s a SIN for me) but there were some lines that touched my heart so deeply that I was left with no other option.
The only issue I had that I felt that the stories were sort of incomplete. Where was KARMA and justice? While reading the story “Thurki uncle” I prayed silently that he fells into gutter on his way home but he reached home safe & sound. I know sometimes it takes years for justice to be served. But it is always there & someone who is doing wrong will get punish if not today,then tomorrow definitely and a book should give us this ray of hope.BUT THAT’S MY OWN PERSONAL OPINION.
To summarise it is a well written and short read which can be easily finished in 1-2 settings & that will make you think that why we act blind to all the wrong doings around us.
August 30, 2022
I'd like to thank the author's extreme kindness for sending me his book in exchange of an honest review
Ironical circumstances are impressively laid in this book, circumstances, which are an offspring of political, systematic and societal negligence varying from a common man's mere perspective on life, which for the most part, is scarcely coming from a place of gratitude and more from the common ground of vengeance and diplomacy
In one chapter we get to encounter nature philosophizing a man on the difference of just being on auto-pilot mode throughout the day with many complains tugging at the tongue-tip Vs an attitude of gratitude.
A partial side to myself that always wished someone would spare the silence off the privileges and corruptly attained convenience our authorities claim for themselves while shunning the needy majority of this nation, has finally come forth in this book through simplistic, resonating and engaging set of eleven chapters.
I would single-out the chapter where a rich owner's dog shares his end of the story and his take on humanity and its obvious duality and self-centeredness to other stray dogs. which made for a thoughtful example and definitely something our generation can self-educate from.
the frankness and the clever use of urdu slang really had me at it.
A good story and an enjoyable story are both a rarity for someone like me who's prone to getting laid-back with my books.
I'd really really recommend that this book be read by every one not because I had a good time reading it but the contents undoubtedly deserve and need some light-shedding with double-standards on peak everywhere around from a clerk's desk to a pet-owner as creatively narrated by the author.
Ironical circumstances are impressively laid in this book, circumstances, which are an offspring of political, systematic and societal negligence varying from a common man's mere perspective on life, which for the most part, is scarcely coming from a place of gratitude and more from the common ground of vengeance and diplomacy
In one chapter we get to encounter nature philosophizing a man on the difference of just being on auto-pilot mode throughout the day with many complains tugging at the tongue-tip Vs an attitude of gratitude.
A partial side to myself that always wished someone would spare the silence off the privileges and corruptly attained convenience our authorities claim for themselves while shunning the needy majority of this nation, has finally come forth in this book through simplistic, resonating and engaging set of eleven chapters.
I would single-out the chapter where a rich owner's dog shares his end of the story and his take on humanity and its obvious duality and self-centeredness to other stray dogs. which made for a thoughtful example and definitely something our generation can self-educate from.
the frankness and the clever use of urdu slang really had me at it.
A good story and an enjoyable story are both a rarity for someone like me who's prone to getting laid-back with my books.
I'd really really recommend that this book be read by every one not because I had a good time reading it but the contents undoubtedly deserve and need some light-shedding with double-standards on peak everywhere around from a clerk's desk to a pet-owner as creatively narrated by the author.
October 9, 2021
Mudslinging which is a very interesting anthology comprised of eleven short stories.
These stories are based on our social and ethical problems. Every story depicts a different social problem that all of us face in one way or another. I have so many favorite stories as every story is so relatable. There is not one story which is boring or requires reader's extra attention to understand the plot of story especially if you are Pakistani.
Every society has some social and ethical flaws which determines the future of that country as these flaws shape the Norms of that society. The small stories in the book have different messages and show how deeply effected and influenced we are, as a nation. Religious beliefs and strong influence of certain sects has divided the nation into various groups blindly following certain school of thoughts. The innocent people are involved and dragged in these issues. Moreover, the defective and inefficient beaurcacy of our country has so many deeply rooted evils that has ruined the whole functionality and mechanism of relevant departments. People from top to bottom are involved in these unethical practices. There are more than one stories in the book that reminded me of these problems which we all face in one way or another but tend to forget as these have become the overall mindset of the nation.
🤩 My favorite part of the book is that it's so catchy and not gives a single chance to reader to lose his attention.
ABOUT AUTHOR 👍🗣️✍️
Hats Off to the author, I love when local authors come in front and play their part. Sir Nauman Afzal reminded me of Manto's writing style. I strongly recommend this book. My ratings are 4/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟
These stories are based on our social and ethical problems. Every story depicts a different social problem that all of us face in one way or another. I have so many favorite stories as every story is so relatable. There is not one story which is boring or requires reader's extra attention to understand the plot of story especially if you are Pakistani.
Every society has some social and ethical flaws which determines the future of that country as these flaws shape the Norms of that society. The small stories in the book have different messages and show how deeply effected and influenced we are, as a nation. Religious beliefs and strong influence of certain sects has divided the nation into various groups blindly following certain school of thoughts. The innocent people are involved and dragged in these issues. Moreover, the defective and inefficient beaurcacy of our country has so many deeply rooted evils that has ruined the whole functionality and mechanism of relevant departments. People from top to bottom are involved in these unethical practices. There are more than one stories in the book that reminded me of these problems which we all face in one way or another but tend to forget as these have become the overall mindset of the nation.
🤩 My favorite part of the book is that it's so catchy and not gives a single chance to reader to lose his attention.
ABOUT AUTHOR 👍🗣️✍️
Hats Off to the author, I love when local authors come in front and play their part. Sir Nauman Afzal reminded me of Manto's writing style. I strongly recommend this book. My ratings are 4/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟
July 1, 2021
Thank you so much Mr. Nauman Afzal for sending me a copy of Mudslinging and other short stories. This book is based on everyday life experiences and observations. The author puts light on matters that happen regularly, that we encounter daily; but we never ponder upon them or speak up about them. This is sad but a reality and we’re so used to it that we consider such things as normal. This book contains some significant lessons and we need to learn from them. The writing is simple, the stories are ordinary and that’s what makes this book extraordinary. Mudslinging is a salient chapter in this book in which the author has taken examples from the monotonous routines of different authoritative organisations and explained that how easily one blames the other, but never examines his own conscience. The society we live in is pretty messed up and it’s hard to break free from the norms and traditions that are being repeated generation after generation without any consideration or rectification. The author highlights how double standards, hypocrisy, corruption, greed, selfishness, dishonesty, lust, disloyalty, fraud and embezzlement freely lingers in our society. How religion is used as an excuse or as a reason to achieve something iniquitous. How the majorities suppress the minorities, the rich suppress the poor, the educated suppress the uneducated. The author has described all the ills with such neutrality; I’m so impressed by his writing style. All the stories are so engaging and I’m so glad I read this book. It’s hands down the best read.
January 24, 2022
A few months ago, I had posted in a group about my book. There, I was reached my Mr. Nauman Afzal and we agreed to exchange our works. He sent his book to my address and I to his. Unfortunately, a few days later I was met with an accident and was restrained from reading books in hard-copies.... And then, a few more months later as I was recovering, my exams got close and I was not able to read the book. I used to feel really bad all that time for not being able to review it. Recently, I got free and was able to read the book. I really liked its cover. It is a small book that I used to read one story a night every day. The stories were beautiful, relatable and with a deep meaning. I mostly read classical books by foreign writers (since they are famous), so I really liked the desi sense and desi sociopolitical problems in the short stories. My favorite were, "Dhai fee sad", "Mud-slinging", "Sarkari Afsar", and "Musalman hoon mein". I will love to read more work by Mr. Afzal and recommend others too to read, "MUDSLINGING and other short stories" by him.
A few suggestions:
1) I felt the need of an index of all the stories with their page no.
2) I am unfortunately very unlearned about the non-medical technical terms especially in abbreviations, that might be very simple for others. I felt the need of a side note on the pages where such abbreviations were present to explain their meanings.
Thank you so much Mr. Afzal for sending me the book. It was a good experience for me.
A few suggestions:
1) I felt the need of an index of all the stories with their page no.
2) I am unfortunately very unlearned about the non-medical technical terms especially in abbreviations, that might be very simple for others. I felt the need of a side note on the pages where such abbreviations were present to explain their meanings.
Thank you so much Mr. Afzal for sending me the book. It was a good experience for me.
July 26, 2021
‘Mudslinging and other short stories’ is a debut book of Nauman Afzal. The stories are fictional, refreshing and pretty diverse in their nature. What I liked about this anthology is author’s simple, objective and non-judgemental storytelling style. Though the reader doesn’t find themselves in any nail-biting mystery sequence, yet they look forward to ending of the story. The dialogues between characters are nowhere intense or complicated, yet we see a range of emotions and humans just being humans.
The stories are edgy, satirical, comical and author takes constant jabs on our work ethics, social norms, “acquired values”, popular culture and so-called religious beliefs. They revolve mostly around mundane tasks, routine events, official and socially accepted way of getting our ‘jaez kaam’ done and occasionally touches the territories of romance and religious extremism.
In this book we find a talking plant, a sneak peek into life and thoughts of a pet doggo, ‘life cycle’ of important things like a ‘file’ in government offices, how ‘community service’ aka duties are done deligently, magic that ensures safety of a muslim from another muslim and discovering who really is holding up all the burden of this developing country! (This is just a teaser, there’s lot more to it)
My personal favorite stories are the show stopper ‘Peela,Peela’, ‘Tharki Uncle’ and ‘Pani Agaya’.
Few quotes from different stories which I loved absolutely.
“Now I was more confused than ever, for I did not know what the paper had in it that my tongue had failed to convey, that my actions had failed to convince, that my prayers did not show or that my words did not say.”
“The only problem was her busy schedule …. She had her schedule scattered like a painter’s palette.”
“It was a place where machinations were planned, a place where allies met to decimate opponents, where deals were made in undertones while not defying the rules of decency, a place where sugar coated words made the most of vocabulary both verbal as well as written and hence sycophancy ruled. It was the undeclared “War Room’. “
“He told them that all these ills were not because they weren’t paying taxes but because the whole system was based on interest which in fact was Haram in Islam
The stories are edgy, satirical, comical and author takes constant jabs on our work ethics, social norms, “acquired values”, popular culture and so-called religious beliefs. They revolve mostly around mundane tasks, routine events, official and socially accepted way of getting our ‘jaez kaam’ done and occasionally touches the territories of romance and religious extremism.
In this book we find a talking plant, a sneak peek into life and thoughts of a pet doggo, ‘life cycle’ of important things like a ‘file’ in government offices, how ‘community service’ aka duties are done deligently, magic that ensures safety of a muslim from another muslim and discovering who really is holding up all the burden of this developing country! (This is just a teaser, there’s lot more to it)
My personal favorite stories are the show stopper ‘Peela,Peela’, ‘Tharki Uncle’ and ‘Pani Agaya’.
Few quotes from different stories which I loved absolutely.
“Now I was more confused than ever, for I did not know what the paper had in it that my tongue had failed to convey, that my actions had failed to convince, that my prayers did not show or that my words did not say.”
“The only problem was her busy schedule …. She had her schedule scattered like a painter’s palette.”
“It was a place where machinations were planned, a place where allies met to decimate opponents, where deals were made in undertones while not defying the rules of decency, a place where sugar coated words made the most of vocabulary both verbal as well as written and hence sycophancy ruled. It was the undeclared “War Room’. “
“He told them that all these ills were not because they weren’t paying taxes but because the whole system was based on interest which in fact was Haram in Islam
January 29, 2022
"For what else is life without love?" 💫
Booktours: @mbooktours
This book contains a collection of 11 short stories. All these stories throw light on social issues which are prevalent in our society nowadays. Writer has done an outstanding job in portraying things as they are, without any filter he showed ingratitude, frustration, greed, corruption, pettiness, grief, loneliness, selfishness, indifferent behavior, declining moral values, sectarianism, religious extremism, intolerance, hypocrisy, mistreatment with inferiors etc.
Writing was simple and elegant. I was always tempted to just keep on reading. Writer has pointed out many faulty ways of us, humans, and it shows he's very observant. He also hints at possible solutions though in a manner that it isn't preachy in any way. There's variety, some stories are emotional, some are funny and some thought provoking. Paani Aagya, The Lonely Man, Rishwat Khor and Kutta Kahani were my favorite stories. One thing that I didn't like was how it ended on a sad note. Had ending been a little optimistic, I'd have enjoyed it more I mean I was gloomy after reading it but we also can't forget the fact that that's how our society is. Many evils are deeply rooted that now they're considered normal. So, I'd absolutely urge you all to read this one. It's short and can be read in one sitting. 4.5🌟
Thank you @mbooktours and @nauman.afzal.16 for making me a part of this book tour! 💙
Booktours: @mbooktours
This book contains a collection of 11 short stories. All these stories throw light on social issues which are prevalent in our society nowadays. Writer has done an outstanding job in portraying things as they are, without any filter he showed ingratitude, frustration, greed, corruption, pettiness, grief, loneliness, selfishness, indifferent behavior, declining moral values, sectarianism, religious extremism, intolerance, hypocrisy, mistreatment with inferiors etc.
Writing was simple and elegant. I was always tempted to just keep on reading. Writer has pointed out many faulty ways of us, humans, and it shows he's very observant. He also hints at possible solutions though in a manner that it isn't preachy in any way. There's variety, some stories are emotional, some are funny and some thought provoking. Paani Aagya, The Lonely Man, Rishwat Khor and Kutta Kahani were my favorite stories. One thing that I didn't like was how it ended on a sad note. Had ending been a little optimistic, I'd have enjoyed it more I mean I was gloomy after reading it but we also can't forget the fact that that's how our society is. Many evils are deeply rooted that now they're considered normal. So, I'd absolutely urge you all to read this one. It's short and can be read in one sitting. 4.5🌟
Thank you @mbooktours and @nauman.afzal.16 for making me a part of this book tour! 💙
June 18, 2022
'Doing good is good only when you expect no returns whatsoever.'
~Mudslinging, Nauman Afzal
This book comprises of 11 short stories namely Pani agya,dhai fee sad, rishwat khor, mudslinging, sms love, the lonely man, sarkari afsar, kutta kahani, thurkee uncle, musalman hoon mein and peela peela.
I absolutely adore that the names of chapters are in Urdu and the writing actually has a Pakistani touch.I am unusually biased towards ironic stories since I feel it takes actual brains to produce something witty so I loved the satirical vibe.I can't help but quote Austen's quote here.
“Irony is the bringing together of contradictory truths to make out of the contradiction a new truth with a laugh or a smile.” - Becoming Jane
Apart from a few grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, I couldn't find a concrete flaw that would make me question the writer's command over his niche.The storylines were simple, easy to grasp and a treat for light reading.Mudslinging is Nauman Afzal's first novel and I think we should cut him some slack for the mistakes in proofreading.The rest is nothing less than a wonderful satire for our society that breeds horrid vices.Some might be of the view that this novel is doing the job of washing dirty laundry in public.I, however, think that it is only written to target the Pakistani audience and is a mere attempt to unmask the games that people play behind doors in our country.
~Mudslinging, Nauman Afzal
This book comprises of 11 short stories namely Pani agya,dhai fee sad, rishwat khor, mudslinging, sms love, the lonely man, sarkari afsar, kutta kahani, thurkee uncle, musalman hoon mein and peela peela.
I absolutely adore that the names of chapters are in Urdu and the writing actually has a Pakistani touch.I am unusually biased towards ironic stories since I feel it takes actual brains to produce something witty so I loved the satirical vibe.I can't help but quote Austen's quote here.
“Irony is the bringing together of contradictory truths to make out of the contradiction a new truth with a laugh or a smile.” - Becoming Jane
Apart from a few grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, I couldn't find a concrete flaw that would make me question the writer's command over his niche.The storylines were simple, easy to grasp and a treat for light reading.Mudslinging is Nauman Afzal's first novel and I think we should cut him some slack for the mistakes in proofreading.The rest is nothing less than a wonderful satire for our society that breeds horrid vices.Some might be of the view that this novel is doing the job of washing dirty laundry in public.I, however, think that it is only written to target the Pakistani audience and is a mere attempt to unmask the games that people play behind doors in our country.
January 29, 2022
MUDSLINGING aka, KHEECHAR UCHALNA
.....🦋🍁......
Pakistan is one of those few States, where you can kill & harm others in the name of religion. Because, we are emotional fools. We decide and judge on the basis of how things appear. We exploit our Muslim brothers in the name of religion....
And, this is I believe the main theme of all the short stories inscribed in this book.
We meet the characters for a little time, but we get to know a lot from these characters. The author has done justice with every story and has shown a mirror to our deteriorating society.
.....🍁🦋.....
After leafing the last few pages, I felt tired, not physically but emotionally. As if I had been traversing between different areas of our country. Walking down through the narrow streets, witnessing long dingy buildings, grotesque flats. And, those inhabiting these flats, ranting about the unavailability of adequate amount of water. To those of high status, businessmen, courtrooms, auditoriums.
I saw the wretched face of humans in the short story "The Lonely Man"... I laughed with" SMS, Love" pitying the boyfriend...and felt enraged with "Thurkee Uncle"...
.....🍁🦋...
The writing style is simple yet catchy. The writer has used aphoristic ironic style, where you get a pinch of sarcasm.
....🍁🦋....
FAVORITE SHORT STORIES:
THE LONELY MAN 💫
PANI AGAYA
MUDSLINGING
.....🦋🍁......
Pakistan is one of those few States, where you can kill & harm others in the name of religion. Because, we are emotional fools. We decide and judge on the basis of how things appear. We exploit our Muslim brothers in the name of religion....
And, this is I believe the main theme of all the short stories inscribed in this book.
We meet the characters for a little time, but we get to know a lot from these characters. The author has done justice with every story and has shown a mirror to our deteriorating society.
.....🍁🦋.....
After leafing the last few pages, I felt tired, not physically but emotionally. As if I had been traversing between different areas of our country. Walking down through the narrow streets, witnessing long dingy buildings, grotesque flats. And, those inhabiting these flats, ranting about the unavailability of adequate amount of water. To those of high status, businessmen, courtrooms, auditoriums.
I saw the wretched face of humans in the short story "The Lonely Man"... I laughed with" SMS, Love" pitying the boyfriend...and felt enraged with "Thurkee Uncle"...
.....🍁🦋...
The writing style is simple yet catchy. The writer has used aphoristic ironic style, where you get a pinch of sarcasm.
....🍁🦋....
FAVORITE SHORT STORIES:
THE LONELY MAN 💫
PANI AGAYA
MUDSLINGING
Read
June 18, 2022Mudslinging is a compilation of short stories. Each story had its own charm, and my favourite ones were undoubtedly “paani agaya” and “kutta kahani”! Funny how we’ve had a lot of water issues when we shifted, and it made me realise how relatable many stories can get for many people. This book confidently talks about the misconceptions around varying aspects of our society, the leading ones being love and religion. Although I kind of cringed while reading “tharkee uncle” but it honestly made me realise what goes around in the mind of men, or what their thought process is while a women is around them (and when they’re staring like crazy). Poor Dr. Maria! Kudos to the author who wrote a whole story about that category of men (where majority gets offended if the topic is brought up).
Because the stories portray most of the problems being what we’d call “adult” problems, it felt good to be reading those, (but I did get bored too) hehe. I’d say the adults around here would really really relate to those if they get their hands on this book, the electricity bills, gas bills, the poor old father who sent his son abroad. All of these, pretty melancholic yet you’d get hooked to it if you’re the one facing those problems.
Because the stories portray most of the problems being what we’d call “adult” problems, it felt good to be reading those, (but I did get bored too) hehe. I’d say the adults around here would really really relate to those if they get their hands on this book, the electricity bills, gas bills, the poor old father who sent his son abroad. All of these, pretty melancholic yet you’d get hooked to it if you’re the one facing those problems.
June 18, 2022
This is one of the book with prettiest covers i own ❤️😂 Now lets talk about the book, They're are short stories based upon today's reflection of the Pakistani Society, How everything is just painted with lies and betrayal and how some people cover up their lies by bringing religion in it, And The story "Sms love" was perfect example of so called "LOVE" nowadays, and my most favorite one was "PAANI AGYA" It is the perfect example of how Humans can be so ungrateful sometimes. It has very unique topics for each story and very sad reality is described in each.
Overall i was a nice book, i liked reading it as it was very light and interesting. If you're a fan of short stories you would like this.
Overall i was a nice book, i liked reading it as it was very light and interesting. If you're a fan of short stories you would like this.
January 29, 2022
This book is a MASTERPIECE✨ The first amazing work was done on the titles, they were so captivating that I was eager to know what will gonna happen, Tharki Uncle, Peela Peela these tilted were gorgeous❤ The truth of the society, specially Pakistani society, is beautifully described in those short stories, they seem to be shorter but the message they contain was much deeper❤ My fav one was "A lonely man", it truly describes the harsh reality of our youth, the biggest mistake they often do💔 A light-hearted, selflessly written, amazing package of mindful stories❤❤❤
August 30, 2025
This genre was a little different for me since I usually don't read short story collections but I really enjoyed Mudslinging and other short stories. What I really enjoyed was the variety in tone, some stories were serious and reflective while others carried a touch of little humour. Overall this book is a eye opening read reminding us of the realities we live in but often choose to ignore. My favorites were "The lonely man" and "Kutta kahani"
October 10, 2021
“In the jungle, you learn about the other beauties in life. In everyday life, it's all about looking perfect, but in there, there's none of that”. The line as stated above bears a poignant relationship with the overall theme and context of the book at hand, for the commonality that exists between the above-stated line and the theme of the book remains to be a heightened sense of fakeness catalyzed further by staying in ignorance with the same.
The overall length of the book is 146 pages and the overall structure of the book revolves around in the form of a collection of short stories which remain to be introspectively reflective of the ill facets of our society. The first story of the book is titled “Pani Agaya” and tells the story of a man who has been perturbed in his sleep for reasons including work and the new surrounding to which he would soon get acquainted and after waking up he was not so fortunate enough as the initial expectations of reaching the office on time would be blocked by the unavailability of Water and there arise irate emotions in the mind of the protagonist of the story. The next chapter is titled “Kutta Kahani” brings forth the perspective of the world through the eyes of a dog and thus being reflective of other dimensions of humans oblivious to kindness. The next chapter titled “Lonely Man” reflects the plight of an old man who spends all his life in raising a child, all for being left to fend for himself. The short stories continue further with reliance on establishing a common theme and that being mainly the drudgeries of our existence, the impacts of which permeate various aspects of our thinking as well.
It must be noted that the writing style of the book that the strands which bind together the 146 pages till the end remain to be simplicity, relatability, and smoothness with which the stories are presented. Upon careful analysis one can easily see that chapter titles such as “Pani Agaya” etc. invokes a sense of familiarity with the readers and thus easily touches the wider audience who subscribe to the poignant views expressed through the book. In addition to it, the book reflects upon societal facets as well which remains to be the portent to our shoddiness which remains to be given cold shoulder. The combined effect of all these elements makes this book a must-read book for anyone willing to go for a read that ensures infusion of Simplicity, humor, and poignancy which this book verily delivers.
The overall length of the book is 146 pages and the overall structure of the book revolves around in the form of a collection of short stories which remain to be introspectively reflective of the ill facets of our society. The first story of the book is titled “Pani Agaya” and tells the story of a man who has been perturbed in his sleep for reasons including work and the new surrounding to which he would soon get acquainted and after waking up he was not so fortunate enough as the initial expectations of reaching the office on time would be blocked by the unavailability of Water and there arise irate emotions in the mind of the protagonist of the story. The next chapter is titled “Kutta Kahani” brings forth the perspective of the world through the eyes of a dog and thus being reflective of other dimensions of humans oblivious to kindness. The next chapter titled “Lonely Man” reflects the plight of an old man who spends all his life in raising a child, all for being left to fend for himself. The short stories continue further with reliance on establishing a common theme and that being mainly the drudgeries of our existence, the impacts of which permeate various aspects of our thinking as well.
It must be noted that the writing style of the book that the strands which bind together the 146 pages till the end remain to be simplicity, relatability, and smoothness with which the stories are presented. Upon careful analysis one can easily see that chapter titles such as “Pani Agaya” etc. invokes a sense of familiarity with the readers and thus easily touches the wider audience who subscribe to the poignant views expressed through the book. In addition to it, the book reflects upon societal facets as well which remains to be the portent to our shoddiness which remains to be given cold shoulder. The combined effect of all these elements makes this book a must-read book for anyone willing to go for a read that ensures infusion of Simplicity, humor, and poignancy which this book verily delivers.
December 31, 2021
"Mudslinging" is a college of various short stories from our everyday life. It includes the story of old uncle who lives near us along with the high authority officers whom we rarely see.
Every story has a strong message or a moral lesson at its end. Book is well written. Things are a bit repetitive and bland at some points but otherwise it is a great effort. Do give it a read.
Every story has a strong message or a moral lesson at its end. Book is well written. Things are a bit repetitive and bland at some points but otherwise it is a great effort. Do give it a read.
January 30, 2022
BOOK REVIEW OF
👇
"MUDSLINGING AND OTHER SHORT STORIES" Writer BY"NAUMAN AFZAL" an amazing collection of stories that based on experience in our society in everyday of life.
Title of the stories are grab the attention of the reader very easily. It’s look like writer has a deep observation his surroundings.
Writer has covered simple aspects and matter of society that we neglect in these 11 short stories. When i was reading stories one by one I felt like everything is so relatable.
These are simple and thought provoking stories ,nothing difficult, bitter reality and dual face of our society has painted by the writer. Every story has a balance canvas, good character building and developed theme.
The language and tone are very simple and intelligible. It’s super helpful and thought-provoking.
Writer has amazingly describe how society has normalized issues of daily life like corruption, harassment and sectarism.
Thank you Nauman Afzal for sending a review copy of your book. Hope to see more from you. I highly highly recommend it!
Good luck. Stay healthy wealthy.
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