About

A born and bred Bangladeshi, I moved to the United States for college. Fast forward to the present, I built my nest in New York.

My love for books began very early with my mother reading to me at bedtime. Even though it was usually a ‘Pinky’, ‘Billu’ or ‘Chacha Chowdhury’, I used to listen to her intently. Afterwards, I would spend hours perusing the pictures while creating my own dialogues for the panels (I was too young to read). When I started to read on my own, I scoured through Peter Rabbit and Little Golden Books. The bookstores in New Market were my happy place and British Council, my wonderland. I don’t think I can ever remember a time when I was not reading or carrying a book with me.

Growing up in Dhaka, I lived a sheltered life and so, books were my adventures. I lived and breathed books; had all the library cards and did not miss a Ekushe Boimela. Risking dating myself by writing this, I remember the Independence Day book fair in December which was the second annual book fair. I remember going into both fairs bright-eyed, clutching my allowance and coming out of them with empty pockets but dozens of books tied in twine. Now I try to head to every Bookcon and book fairs New York City has to offer. I also proudly carry my library card and join every book club I like.

My family and friends joke about my bag packing (I always carry a physical book even though my phone has both the Kindle and Audiobook apps filled with downloaded titles). People usually pack water or food or clothing- my bags contain books. I proudly wear my bookworm badge.

I read just about every genre I come across, which is why my blog is sprinkled with a bit of everything. I do have a thing for Mysteries, Thrillers and True Crime. A die-hard fan of Feluda, Kiriti, Tintin, Tin Goyenda, Sherlock, Pendergast and Poirot, I greedily snatch up anything that may hint at any of the three genres. But that does not mean I won’t enthusiastically pick up a Historical Fiction or a Biography.

I started this blog to share my thoughts about books and anything book-related. I welcome all book lovers and enthusiasts. My ratings are given out of 5 counts of mirchi (peppers). I am happy to chat and answer book-related topics and questions. So, stop by and check out some posts or drop a line at bookish.bengali@gmail.com!

XOXO,

Bengali Bookworm