Book Title: Decoding Symbols and Symbolism: A Journey Spanning History, Mythology & Geography
Author: Shweta Ganesh Kumar
Publisher: Hachette India
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 9357315535
Date Published: Sept. 17, 2026
Book Review
“Decoding Symbols and Symbolism: A Journey Spanning History, Mythology & Geography” by Shweta Ganesh Kumar asks a simple but fascinating question: why do certain images carry such power? Her book explores familiar symbols, traces where they came from, and shows how their meanings shift across cultures and places.
Shweta’s approach is friendly and accessible. She treats symbols not as puzzles with one correct answer, but as invitations to look beyond the surface. A snake, a circle, a tree or a sacred mark can mean danger, life, eternity or protection depending on history, religion and geography. This makes the book a pleasant starting point for readers curious about mythology, art and everyday signs.
The strongest part of the book is its wide range. Shweta moves easily between ancient beliefs, myths and modern interpretations, reminding readers that symbols are living things: they travel, change and take on new meanings. Her writing avoids heavy academic language, which helps the subject feel open rather than intimidating.
However, the book sometimes stays at the level of interesting facts. Readers hoping for a sharper argument about how symbols shape politics, identity or popular culture may find it a little light. Some interpretations could also benefit from more careful sourcing and context.
Still, “Decoding Symbols and Symbolism” succeeds as an inviting, readable guide that makes the ordinary world feel quietly full of meaning.
Books are love!
Get a copy now!
About the Author
Shweta Ganesh Kumar is an award-winning blogger and author who writes fiction for both adults and children. In 2017, she received the prestigious UNFPA-Laadli Media Award for Gender Sensitivity in the Blog–Web Category for her article, Why the Phrase “Boys Will Be Boys” Is Damaging Our Sons, published on Women’s Web. Her children’s books, which showcase the rich diversity of the Indian subcontinent, have reached readers worldwide and been translated into more than eighteen languages. Her work has also been featured at the New York Public Library’s World Literature Festival and India Week at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.
Alongside her writing, Shweta hosts Storytelling with Shweta, a Spotify podcast in which she brings Indian myths to life for contemporary audiences. Professionally, she works as a senior developmental editor at Forbes Books.
She lives in New York City with her husband, their two children, and their dog.
![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://storizen.com/book-reviews/decoding-symbols-and-symbolism-by-shweta-ganesh-kumar/&media=https://storizen.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Decoding-Symbols-and-Symbolism-by-Shweta-Ganesh-Kumar-Book-Review_11zon_11zon.webp&description="Decoding Symbols and Symbolism: A Journey Spanning History, Mythology & Geography" by Shweta Ganesh Kumar asks a simple but fascinating question: why do certain images carry such power?){kind=link}