Shades within Shadows' released

Mangalore, December 17: A new addition to the literary world of South Kanara was seen on Friday, when the Catholic Association of South Kanara (CASK) released a book authored by Christian writer Alan Machado (Prabhu).

His latest offering, 'Shades within Shadows' saw its rightful place amidst 75- 80 interested Christian readers who attended the function at St Aloysius College auditorium.

Mrs Latha Kini, President of Kanara Chamber Of Commerce and Industry presided over the function. Being an avid book reader herself she spoke to the gathering saying, “It takes passion to undertake a task of creativity. A book about a limited section of society is very hard to write. But I noticed a child like enthusiasm in Alan. Creativity is the ability to see good in others blossom. Authors like the one today make invaluable contribution to society.”

The chief guest then ceremoniously released the new book.

Another Christian scholar Dr William D Silva giving an introduction into the author's background said that this book connects instantly with the local population and gives a peek into the 18th century. The author is imaginative and productive and his previous work 'Saraswathi's children' also was enjoyed by many. He goes on a disruptive tangent and disputes issues people take for granted. This is a narrative of a different kind and is completely fictionalized, he said.

The book reading also had its place in the evening, first by Dr William D Silva, then by Rina Mascaranhes, both of whom read few chapters from the book to the audience. The author himself read the last portion of the book and introducing his work said, “It took me more than three years to complete this work. It is a simple story of simple people, when they were taken into captivity. There is a manuscript called 'Barkur Manuscript' from which I have taken extracts for my work in this book.”