Book Review: ‘Take No. 2020’ by Puneet Sikka

Book Title: Take No. 2020: The Matter of All Retakes
Author: Puneet Sikka
Publisher: Ebury
Number of Pages: 288
ISBN: 978-0143466741
Date Published: Jun. 28, 2024
Price: INR 260

Book Review

“Take No. 2020: The Matter of All Retakes” by Puneet Sikka is a gripping and acerbic novel that masterfully blends humor and grief into a captivating narrative. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous year marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, the book follows a diverse group of characters as they navigate personal and professional challenges. Through their interconnected stories, Sikka delves into themes of identity, morality, and the human condition, providing a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be a hero or villain in one’s own life.

Author Sikka’s writing is lauded for its sharp wit and adeptness at balancing the somber with the absurd. The novel has been aptly described as a maze delving into the complexities of reality versus perception. The narrative’s strength lies in its ability to question the nature of reality and challenge readers’ beliefs about their own lives. The author’s skillful handling of sensitive subject matter, including the #MeToo allegations surrounding the character Micky Taneja, further enriches the story, making it both compelling and poignant.

The characters in “Take No. 2020” are richly written and their stories are deeply intertwined. Meera, who has just landed her first big Bollywood film, struggles with the highs and lows of her career. Dabloo, fighting to make ends meet, experiences both the lowest and highest points of his professional journey. Aspiring TikTok star Jayesh discovers his true calling in the most unexpected ways, while Micky Taneja, entangled in scandal, seeks redemption and true love. As their paths collide, broken relationships give way to unexpected connections, and repressed pasts resurface, forcing each character to confront their true selves.

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Overall, “Take No. 2020” is a compelling and thought-provoking read that offers a unique perspective on the events of a tumultuous year. Readers have praised the book’s gripping plot and Sikka’s ability to weave humor into a narrative steeped in grief and complexity. The novel stands out for its insightful exploration of the human experience during a global crisis, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs that defined 2020.

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