The Dead know Nothing By Kishore Ram I Book Review By Swahilya
Swahilya N Devanand reviews the gripping thriller The Dead Know Nothing by Kishore Ram, which goes beyond a typical “whodunit” novel.
The Dead know Nothing by Kishore Ram
Book Review by Swahilya N Devanand
Name : The Dead know Nothing
Author : Kishore Ram
Reviewed by: Swahilya N Devanand
Genre: Thriller / Mystery / Drama
About the Book
The Dead know Nothing by Kishore Ram is not just another novel, but a gripping thriller that goes beyond a “whodunit” type of book. The design of the book cover complements with the mysterious elements of the novel.
Writing Style and Language
While reading the novel, one can easily get lost in the engaging descriptions of the dense forests, murky beaches and a host of beautiful landscapes in the storyline, as if one is watching a no nonsensical, proper Malayalam thriller movie. Thanks to the abundant use of imagery and metaphors that add extra spice to the riveting plot. The plot is well-knit to suit all kinds of readers. Crime, romance and suspense are all rolled into one book here. The enigmatic story keeps the reader hooked throughout the journey. The only drawback of the book is that it is simply un-put-downable.
Main Plot and Themes
The book stars Thankachan as the main character, who could not pass his B.A. exams. Now he fears that he is no good in life either. Since he was born into a Marakkan community, he feels that he should rise above his social status. Till the end, he fails to come to terms with the realities of life. He cannot do what his ancestors were doing, that is, fishing for a simple livelihood. As they were evicted from their Fathima island, they had to struggle to make ends meet. Thankachan is proud of his elder brother Mathappan. He respects Mathappan. Their seemingly normal relationship takes a drastic turn when Mathappan begins to behave suspiciously. Is Mathappan responsible for the twin murder case on Joseph island? This suspicion on Mathappan keeps the reader thoroughly engrossed till the end of the novel. The one you think alive is dead and the one you think dead is alive indeed! This is the perfect twist to complicate the plot of the story to make the readers guess till the end.
Philosophical Elements
The opening and ending sentences of the book deserve close reading. The novel begins with the words of Capuchin priest to Thankachan “What’s God’s plan for you?” and ends with these Jokki’s words of wisdom that Thankachan keeps thinking, “The most important thing is that we exist.” Yes, it maybe God’s plan for all of us to exist despite all odds and move on with life. Thus, the book celebrates the fighting spirit of Thankachan and upholds the essence of life.
Recommended for
Readers who enjoy literary thrillers, social fiction, and emotional suspense stories.
Final Verdict
A haunting, unputdownable story that lingers long after the final page.
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One Response
Dear Swahilya N Devanand,
Your review of Author Kishore Ram’s novel The Dead Know nothing is the result of astute observations you made while reading this interesting novel.
The notable part of your review is that you have analyzed the underlying philosophical tone of this story. It is uncharacteristic of a girl of your age to understand such depths hidden in this story. It shows your intellect.
Keep up your good work and hope that your reading, analyzing and reviewing of novels will shape a writer in you in future.
All the best to you Swahilya
Prayerfully from India (Kerala)
Roy Das