Be it any country, freedom and independence struggle and allied stories are way captivating and provide a reason for authors to research and write in that direction. India’s freedom struggle lasted for 90 years…and that is quite good timeline to rope up stories from many arteries and views. However, this work of non-fiction by the Indian writer Krishna Kumar marks out one single year that proved pivotal for India’s freedom. That year was 1942. Krishna Kumar sketches out events that happened in Burma, North-East India, Singapore, Malaya…and in the Indian Ocean…after one time collectively the ramifications worked for India and the lead imperial force British came on its knees. How? This book explains it all.

A close look reveals that out of the façade of non-fiction historical work, the book 1942 is a beautifully crafted tale of historical magic, mystery, and military adventure that captivated readers since the very first page. The unknown herd of characters seeded in the history that made significant contributions for India’s freedom fight is well-drawn and credibly chiseled with their specific roles in and out of the country.

It is such an easy and good book that it draws in readers deeply and they will be invested in it. One of the best highlights is the journey of characters (real ones) and the connections they form with each other and the overall implications turned on freedom struggle. And that was all done with the lyrical prose and rich detailing of events occurring in India, Burma, Singapore…and other areas that pinned India’s bright chances of freedom but at the same time weakened British Rule.

Kumar’s writing is eventful by keeping banality at bay, at par with historians, many a time poignant and clear…lending clear images of the events right before your eyes. As pointed above the narrative isn’t banal, it keeps bringing something or other either in the sweeps or military details of ships and planes or the caravan of army. All the theories and assumptions in the book are supported by valid references and proper fact figures. Overall, this motivating tribute-offering book offers inspiration and some good knowledge and insight into the spirit of India’s fight for freedom.