Book Review: Major Tom’s War
Author: Vee Walker
Major Tom’s War is an engrossing and touching book by the author, Vee Walker. It is a comprehensive narrative of the protagonist, Major Tom, who was born in India, was raised with love and understanding of the Indian culture. He spent his youth in Calcutta as a Lawyer and had an innate love for India and its people, which was reflective in his compassionate and empathetic dealing with Indian soldiers during World War 1.
Major Tom loved the Indian culture, customs, food and was proficient in Indian languages. He took part in the First World War, served with the Allied forces in Europe and commanded Indian Cavalry forces. He developed a close bond, comradery and mutual respect for his Sikh cavalry troops, which is narrated beautifully in the book. The novel describes the bravery of Sikh soldiers and how Honour and Izzat was paramount amongst the Sikhs. There is a story of Risaldar Harnam Singh, who like many other Sikhs took it upon themselves to protect their British officers as it was considered their primary duty and ‘Izzat’. There is a narration of brave Dafadar Arjan Singh and his heroic deeds during the war and how like other Sikh soldiers, he was instrumental in saving lives of his officers and never flinched from his duty during adverse conditions. Also, there is a mention of a tall, brave Risaldar Major Amar Singh, who was wise, intelligent and a great leader, who supported Major Tom during his service in France.
The book has an interesting storyline of Major Tom, his life, his struggles and perusal of Love. The story is written in a way that will keep one in suspense and engaged till the end. The author has done an amazing work by compiling this novel from real-life documents, correspondence and research by amalgamating military facts with a gripping storyline. I love the writing style of the author, it has perfect level of detail to keep the story captivating and while reading the book one can visualize the scenes along with the characters and events as they may have occurred during the period. The author has been superlative in portraying diverse characters, and human attributes: both good and evil, prevalent amongst beings in all walks of life.
I commend the author for her efforts in writing this entrancing book, her love for India and the people is reflective in her work and I would highly recommend all of my friends to order and read it in the foreseeable future. It is available on Amazon for a reasonable price. My copy was personally autographed by the author and sent to me last month. I will keep this in my collection for posterity.
