It’s been a while since I picked up a book on a whim and devoured it in one sitting. But Mandeep Meets Mandeep, a novel I had tucked away in my TBR for several weeks, proved to be that captivating read. Written by the talented Dr. Sona Sharma, this story, based on true events, had me gripped from the first page to the last.
Dr. Sharma’s writing is elegant in its simplicity. It’s crisp, clear, and flows with an ease that makes it accessible yet profound. What I particularly appreciated was how the story seamlessly integrates information—complex medical concepts, legal battles, and critical societal issues—without ever feeling overwhelming or like reading a dense medical journal. Instead, it educates and informs, while keeping you deeply invested in the narrative.
I must admit, there were terms and concepts in this book that I had only a vague understanding of before, but Dr. Sharma brings clarity to them: Imatinib, the groundbreaking cancer drug, the Novartis patent case, HLA matching, and WMDA (World Marrow Donor Association). While these topics could easily be dry or technical, the author presents them in a way that feels personal and impactful. When told through a story, knowledge becomes more tangible—and that’s exactly what this book achieves.
What resonated with me most was the emphasis on the importance of stem cell and bone marrow donations. The way the narrative highlights the life-saving potential of donors is both moving and eye-opening, reinforcing the incredible power we each have to change or save someone’s life.
From a storytelling perspective, I admired the use of the third-person omniscient point of view. While most of the focus is on the protagonists, we are also given insights into the lives of those around them—like Mr. Chandrashekar of DKMS-BMST, whose passion for connecting strangers who are genetic twins plays a critical role in the plot. His joy and determination in facilitating life-saving connections are palpable. The subtle yet piercing nod to casteism and religion, two issues that entwine themselves into nearly every facet of Indian society, adds a layer of realism and weight to the story.
One character that stood out to me was Srinivas. He embodies the simple yet profound truth that, sometimes, when we’re at our lowest, a kind stranger can offer the most unexpected solace. His warmth and friendliness bring a much-needed touch of lightness to the darker moments in the book.
Mandeep Meets Mandeep is more than a compelling story—it’s a reminder to cherish every day, to be mindful of the connections we can make, and to acknowledge the fragility and beauty of life. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartfelt, informative, and inspiring read. It may just leave you with a newfound appreciation for the quiet heroes among us—and perhaps a reminder of the hero within yourself.
