Muniya’s Quest: A Brave Search for Belonging [Book Review]

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Title: Muniya’s Quest
Author: Mandira Shah
Cover Illustration: Sunaina Coelho
Cover Design: Maithili Doshi Aphale
Type: Paperback
Age group: 10 years+
Genre: Fiction
Publisher: Talking Cub (An imprint of Speaking Tiger Books)
Length: 224 pages

Muniya’s Quest —this children’s book made the adult in me cry and the child in me brave. I am always amazed at how even a children’s book can provide profound perspectives.

We are always faced with perennial questions about our existence, our purpose on this earth, and the nature of life, love, and death, aren’t we? And so is our 12-year-old protagonist, Muniya, who faces a perennial question about her identity. When she learns that she is adopted, she embarks on a quest to find her birth parents. How she sets out on the quest, where she goes, whom she meets, what she experiences, and what she ultimately discovers make up the heart of this story.

The narrative is powerful enough that right from the start when Muniya decides to step out, my heart starts following her like a shadow. One can easily sense the calmness of preparedness along with the palpitations of unpredictability that Muniya exhibits.

She is determined to find her birth parents but is hesitant about leaving her Abbu, who adopted her. The checklist she makes to prepare for the journey ahead along with the letter she leaves for her Abbu, anticipating his worry, are touching details. This is where the author stands out, bringing out the real-life possibilities that could go wrong while also sketching a brave character who is prepared, determined, and ready to face whatever comes her way.

Can you imagine your tween or teen stepping outside of your home, all alone, and going on a quest without any heads-up? Alarming and frightening, right? Trust me, I had the same thought and was in a dilemma about whether I should let my tween read this book. However, by the end, I was convinced to let her read it. (More on her thoughts about the book at the end.)

While it might be hard for parents to accept, most tweens and teens have, at least once, thought of leaving home, let’s understand that it’s not uncommon. It’s their need to find a sense of independence that makes them feel this way. Although the protagonist in this book has a different purpose (much like Amuda in Mani Ratnam’s movie, Kannathil Muthamittal), the author deserves special appreciation for handling this topic with such care.

Getting back to the story, when Muniya finds two new friends on her journey, the story becomes even more exciting. One friend is a creative inventor, and the other is a kind-hearted animal lover. Their unique life stories are easily accepted by each other without any judgments, highlighting another endearing trait among children.

The story has its equal share of adventure, emotions, drama and mystery to keep you hooked till the last page.

Their encounters with a conman, poachers, a thief with a difference and a pangolin all adds up to the layers of fun and mystery. The places they go and the dots they connect to unlock the enigma of Muniya’s birth are definitely interesting and intriguing.

My favourite part of the story is when Muniya encounters a Baul singer whose mystic yet comforting lines resonate with her. She circles back to these lines at the end of the story, and this time, they make sense to her. Sometimes we come across lines or random experiences that initially make no sense, but after going through certain experiences, they become clear. That’s exactly what was captured here so beautifully.  Also, the conversation between the baul and Muniya was short yet profound that it will leave one reflecting upon and circling back to it.

I am a wanderer, a baul,
This road is my home, and I seek.
My tribe is everywhere
In the hearts of those I meet.
I am a part of the universe,
And the universe is but a part of me.

Also, did I say there’s a cat and its antics purrfect enough a companion all through the story? I loved it so much that I wished the vibrant cover page had a furry pop-up cat just to get the feel of petting it.

In conclusion, Muniya’s Quest is a testament to how a children’s book can deeply resonate with both young and mature readers alike. Through Muniya’s brave journey, the author masterfully explores themes of identity, independence, and the emotional complexity of seeking one’s origins.

That said, here are a few additional points my 12-year-old wanted to share:

1. She initially felt worried and puzzled about why Muniya went on her quest alone instead of asking her Abbu for help. However, she was convinced after understanding Muniya’s perspective.
2. She appreciated Muniya’s concern for her Abbu, especially when Muniya mentions reminding him to take his medicines in her letter.
3. She found it relatable that Muniya carries a diary, makes checklists, writes down her plans and possibilities and strikes off some.
4. She particularly loved how Muniya’s friends supported her throughout the journey, even when she chose not to involve them in her personal struggles.
5. She was initially puzzled about why Muniya would search for her birth parents when she already had a loving and caring Abbu. She felt that if Muniya had no one, it would make more sense, but not in this case.
6. She was curious about what Muniya’s birth parents would be like and felt a mix of sadness, happiness, and surprise upon discovering how her family turned out.

And did I mention? Muniya’s inventive friend might have inspired my daughter with some creative ideas, and now she’s busy digging through junk piles at home! Who knows what’s next?!

Overall, this book is a reminder of the beauty in discovering ourselves and the connections we make along the way. It’s a read that will linger in your heart and mind long after the final page is turned.

The author’s first book for young adults, Children of the Hidden Land is an award winning book.

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Disclaimer: We got this book as part of #kbcReviewerSquad and we feel happy and privileged to be part of it as we are free to have our opinions and give an honest review of the book.