• THE SNAKE AND THE LOTUS: A HALAHALA ADVENTURE (Westland, Rs 799) by Appupen takes the reader on yet another trip into the mythical universe of Halahala. Filled with suspense, as life in this world is nearing an end, it is a treat for science fiction enthusiasts. The artwork, steeped in black and white, is darker than the earlier works in this series in order to complement the story. The book plays on the old theme of humans versus machines, and the quest of the chosen one to save humanity. It marks a departure from the usually silent works of Appupen, as a narrator guides the reader through the plot. This book holds the promise of a new beginning, especially in the genre of graphic novels in India.

• LOVE AND LIFE IN LUCKNOW: AN IMAGINARY BIOGRAPHY OF A CITY (Niyogi, Rs 395) by Mehru Jaffer is an attempt to capture in words the spirit of the city of tehzeeb . The author emphasizes the idea of storytelling and lyricism as a cultural bequest of Lucknow. In her narration, history, myths and contemporary life are interwoven, and her erudition is unmistakable. Jaffer brings to life interesting characters, each with a distinct tale. However, like the lanes of the city, one story in the book ceaselessly leads to another, and the detours get somewhat tedious. But her subtle touch upon the city being a melting pot of religions and brush with queer themes - the stories of the possibly-lesbian lovers and the rickshaw-puller's dream of playing Laila on stage - are commendable.

• WHO ME, POOR? HOW INDIA'S YOUTH ARE LIVING IN URBAN POVERTY TO MAKE IT BIG (Bloomsbury, Rs 399) by Gayatri Jayaraman reveals the secret behind the uncountable cups of Starbucks coffee or happening nights out that characterize a section of the Indian urban youth. Through case studies, this book not only analyzes an emerging phenomenon where public image is more important than a sustainable lifestyle, but also studies the social cultures that enforce it. Divided into four sections, Jayaraman's work is well-researched and insightful. It covers a wide range of modern trends, like using app-cabs instead of buying cars, offering sex for money in order to afford an expensive phone, and buying extravagant meals just to put pictures up on social media. The content becomes repetitive, and the quotations preceding each chapter hardly help, but the book initiates a dialogue that is especially pertinent in our consumerist world.