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Prophet Song

Paul Lynch

Fiction | Dystopia

Ireland is falling apart. The country is in the grips of a government turning towards tyranny and Eilish can only watch helplessly as the world she knew disappears. When first her husband and then her eldest son vanish, Eilish finds herself caught in the nightmare logic of a collapsing society. How far will she go to save her family? And what – or who – is she willing to leave behind? Exhilarating, terrifying, and propulsive, Prophet Song is a work of breathtaking originality, offering a devastating vision of a country at war and a deeply human portrait of a mother’s fight to hold her family together. 

Elon Musk

Walter Isaacson

Biography

From the author of Steve Jobs and other bestselling biographies, this is the astonishingly intimate story of the most fascinating and controversial innovator of our era—a rule-breaking visionary who helped to lead the world into the era of electric vehicles, private space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Oh, and took over Twitter. For two years, Isaacson shadowed Musk, attended his meetings, walked his factories with him, and spent hours interviewing him, his family, friends, coworkers, and adversaries. The result is the revealing inside story filled with amazing tales of triumphs and turmoil that address the demons that drive Musk.

The Architect’s Apprentice

Elif Shafak

Historical Fiction

In 1540, 12-year-old Jahan arrived in Istanbul. As an animal tamer in the sultan’s menagerie, he looks after the exceptionally smart elephant Chota and befriends (and falls for) the sultan’s beautiful daughter, Princess Mihrimah. A palace education leads Jahan to Mimar Sinan, the empire’s chief architect, who takes Jahan under his wing as they construct (with Chota’s help) some of the most magnificent buildings in history. Yet even as they build Sinan’s triumphant masterpieces—the incredible Suleymaniye and Selimiye mosques—dangerous undercurrents begin to emerge, with jealousy erupting among Sinan’s four apprentices.

Shafak’s intricate novel brims with vibrant characters, intriguing adventure, and the lavish backdrop of the Ottoman court, where love and loyalty are no match for raw power.

Inflation and economic crises are two connected phenomena that can have a big impact on the economy. Inflation stunts the purchasing power of consumers, meaning transactions decline, and when goods and services are no longer bought or sold, the economy slows down. It affects consumers as well as business owners. As Nepal grapples with economic downturn, Evana Manandhar of ApEx talked with three business owners to know how they are faring during these trying times.

Ajab Prasad Gupta, 38

Inflation and the economic crisis have significantly affected my life. The rising prices of goods and services have made it harder for me to purchase the inventory I need for my business. For instance, the cost of raw materials and ingredients I use for my street food business has gone up, squeezing my profit margins. Moreover, many potential customers are feeling the pinch of the economic crisis, and they have less disposable income to spend on street food and other non-essential items. This has led to a decline in sales, making it challenging for small business owners like me to make ends meet. I’ve had to adapt by offering smaller portions or searching for cheaper suppliers, but it's been tough maintaining a steady income.

Ramila Manandhar, 45

The impact of the ongoing economic crisis has been felt by all, and my business is no exception. One of the most significant hurdles has been the sharp decline in demand and sales, leading to a noticeable dip in profits. Customers have been cautious with their spending, and the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic has made it difficult to predict market trends accurately.

Another critical issue we’ve faced is a decline in the quality of some suppliers, products, or services. The disruptions, first caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and now by the Russia-Ukraine war, have led to inconsistencies in the supply chain, affecting the overall quality and reliability of our products and services. Maintaining a high level of quality has become a constant struggle. While navigating these unprecedented challenges has been far from easy, it has also been an opportunity for growth and adaptation. The experience gained during these trying times has equipped my business with resilience and resourcefulness that will serve us well in the future.

Dinesh Shresthacharya, 53

Inflation and the economic crisis have had a significant impact on my life. The rising costs of goods and services have made it more expensive to restock my store, eroding my profit margins. Moreover, customers who are feeling the financial strain due to the economic crisis are spending less on non-essential items, leading to a decline in sales. On a personal level, the increased cost of living has made it challenging to manage my household expenses, including rent and utilities. It’s a constant struggle to adapt to these economic challenges and maintain a stable business while ensuring my own financial stability. Additionally, the uncertainty stemming from the economic crisis and inflation has made long-term planning for my business and personal life increasingly difficult. It’s challenging to predict how the market will evolve or when economic conditions might improve. This instability has created a sense of anxiety and stress, affecting both my work and personal well-being.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) predicts that Nepal’s economy is set to achieve a growth rate of 4.3 percent in fiscal year 2024, signifying a significant improvement compared to the previous fiscal year when the country’s economic growth rate was limited to only 1.9 percent. In a similar vein, the ADB report forecasts a decrease in the annual average inflation to 6.2 percent in 2024 from 7.7 percent in 2023.

While a reduction in inflation would be beneficial, at present, it is close to eight percent. The economic downturn and inflation have impacted individuals from various walks of life, particularly students from outside the Kathmandu Valley pursuing higher education here. Pratik Ghimire from ApEx spoke with these working students to understand the challenges they face due to inflation.

Sushila Tamang, Nuwakot

As a working student in Kathmandu, I face the challenge of an increasing cost of living. My landlord has recently expressed the intention to raise the room rent, which adds to my financial burden. I’ve communicated with my landlord, urging them to consider the impact of inflation on my already tight budget. The rise in prices of groceries and various necessities has made it increasingly difficult for me to make ends meet.

While I empathize with my landlord’s situation and acknowledge the economic crisis affecting many, I believe there must be alternative solutions besides raising the rent. It’s essential for both parties to find a balance that ensures fair treatment and sustenance. I hope my landlord and others facing similar circumstances can explore options that don’t further strain the already challenged finances of individuals like myself. In addition, I call upon the government to address this issue promptly, as it affects numerous working students and individuals trying to navigate the financial complexities of living in Kathmandu. Finding a resolution will contribute to a more sustainable and equitable living situation for all.

Yuvraj Chaudhary, Dhanusha

Recession serves as a valuable life lesson for students, especially since many rely on their parents for financial support. I am among those students. This means that my peers and I face a double impact, affecting both our parents and ourselves. In many families, it’s evident that they are barely managing and making sacrifices to afford their children’s education. In some unfortunate cases, students are forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints.

In response to rising prices, I have started embracing more cost-effective and sustainable alternatives. Many other students are also increasingly turning to digital copies (PDFs) of books and opting for laptops or tablets instead of traditional paper notebooks, which have become more expensive. Moreover, I am seeking out affordable food options, shifting away from fast food for breakfast and dinner. One positive aspect of this is that even undergraduates who used to frequent tea stalls for tea and smoking are striving to improve their habits.

Shristi Bista, Kailali

Living and pursuing education in Kathmandu comes with its own set of financial challenges, effectively doubling the financial burden as my family has to manage both expenses back home and here for my education. This situation has taken a significant emotional toll on me, recognizing the strain it places on families already managing tight budgets. Sustaining a livelihood in Kathmandu has become an immense struggle.

It’s been five years since my arrival in Kathmandu, and I immediately started working to support myself. However, over these years, my salary has seen only a minimal increment, barely keeping up with the soaring inflation rate, which has surged around triple. This presents a dire dilemma for a working student like myself, making it increasingly difficult to manage finances adequately.

I constantly worry about being able to fulfill my financial responsibilities towards my family, who have made significant sacrifices to provide me with a good education. The burden of inflation adds an extra layer of stress, making me ponder how much easier life would be without these financial constraints caused by rising prices. Finding a way to navigate this financial tightrope is an ongoing challenge, and I remain hopeful for better days ahead. The inflation has hit me emotionally.

Shasank Sekhar Neupane, Jhapa

I have now lived in Kathmandu for six years. For myself, I am a student who also works a part-time job to support my daily necessities. The inflation that is soaring day by day is the main reason I have recently found it arduous to support myself here in Kathmandu.

I have a lot of issues with room rent, internet costs, and bus fares because of the rising inflation as a student living in Kathmandu. Keeping costs under control while working with a tight budget has gotten more and more challenging. The cost of internet usage has dramatically increased, while the rent for a quality room has risen. It is now much more expensive to use public transport, which makes it more difficult for me to manage my education.

I’ve attempted to lower my costs by adopting various simple measures, avoiding meet-ups, and outdoor foods, and switching to a slower-speed internet, but it still feels difficult. The fact that everything’s costs are increasing daily, and I have so little money to spend on other necessities, is frustrating. This is not unique to me; several of my acquaintances who are also having financial difficulties have made similar comments.

Bungatun Rai, Khotang

I live with SOS Village, and all of my expenses are borne by them. So, I don’t have to face the consequences of inflation directly. But I’ve witnessed numerous fellow students grappling with the impacts of both inflation and the prevailing economic crisis. A close friend of mine used to save a portion of his earnings in cooperatives every month. However, with the crisis in full swing, a significant number of these cooperatives have collapsed. With inflation on the rise and our savings slipping out of our control, how can students like us endure these challenging circumstances?

As students, this economic turmoil poses a serious threat to our financial stability and overall well-being. We find ourselves in a precarious situation, struggling to find viable solutions to survive these trying times. The collapse of cooperatives, which were once considered a reliable avenue for saving and investment, only adds to our financial distress.

Rajnesh Shrestha, Dhading

Due to rising inflation, the lives of students have become increasingly challenging. This surge in prices has affected essential expenses like food, housing, transportation, and daily necessities, making it harder for students to make ends meet. Despite stagnant income levels, expenses keep mounting. For instance, the tuition fees for engineering students have more than doubled from Rs 700,000 to Rs 800,000 five years ago to now over Rs 1.5 million. Additionally, the cost of study materials has also surged, making it difficult for students to afford materials essential for fostering new ideas or innovations.

When students move to Kathmandu from outside, they often need to purchase everything required to establish a livelihood since they don't have their own accommodation. Financially disadvantaged students often need to work part-time, which unfortunately affects their academic pursuits. Shockingly, some students are working for wages lower than the government-mandated minimum wage, even after attaining a graduate level of education. These circumstances force students to seek opportunities abroad for sustenance after investing heavily in their education. Consequently, the population of youth and students in rural areas has declined due to this exodus.

Dibyadristi Lama, Makawanpur

I am a working student. Thankfully, I don’t place any financial burden on my family. However, the impact of inflation has become a noticeable factor, occasionally causing my expenses to surpass my earned income. This situation forces me to reach out to my parents for financial assistance, a circumstance that I view with a tinge of disappointment. I wish to spare my parents from the strain of added financial responsibility, especially given their residence in a rural setting. Nevertheless, there are times when I must set aside my reservations and request aid to manage my expenses adequately.

My situation is relatively better. It’s disheartening to witness the challenges faced by some of my friends. They, too, grapple with the effects of inflation, particularly evident in the doubled bus fares that make it difficult for them to visit their hometown. Consequently, they’re forced to endure the emotional burden of being unable to be present for their family members when they are sick. The economic dynamics at play in our lives have indeed reshaped the way we navigate our personal and familial obligations.

Binod Bista, Doti

As a student, I’ve encountered numerous challenges stemming from inflation, which have significantly influenced my daily routine. From the moment I begin my day to when I retire for the night, the effects of inflation are palpable. Upon waking up, my first encounter with inflation occurs when I purchase vegetables, witnessing a twofold increase in prices for essential kitchen items. Throughout the day, the impact persists as I utilize public transportation, observing the elevated fares for bus rides. Late into the evening, following my night class, I rely on ride-sharing services since public buses are not available at that hour. However, even these alternative transportation options have seen price hikes due to the escalating costs of petroleum products, further adding to the financial strain caused by inflation.

Inflation has taken a toll on my mental well-being as well. In my area, there have been three instances of looting recently. A significant factor driving people toward such criminal acts is the struggle to sustain livelihood in Kathmandu. I worry about the possibility of becoming a victim of such looting incidents myself. It has impacted me psychologically.

Bishnu Maya Shrestha, Tanahu

Many students, driven by the aspiration to pursue education, venture to Kathmandu. However, the fundamental requisites of sustenance, namely lodging and food, become paramount regardless of the academic pursuit. Sadly, a few of my friends from Far West Nepal had to abandon their education in Kathmandu due to the overwhelming financial strain. The escalating inflation forced them to make the painful decision to interrupt their higher studies, illustrating the gravity of the situation.

This crisis demands urgent attention from the government, particularly concerning the welfare of students. Students represent the future of the nation, and any hindrance to their education results in a loss not only for them but also for society and the entire nation. If this pressing issue remains unaddressed, we risk a widespread exodus of intellectual capital, exacerbating the problem of brain drain on a much larger scale. It’s imperative that immediate measures are taken to alleviate the financial burden on students, ensuring a promising future for both them and the nation.

Bibek Pariyar, Sunsari

As a music student, I’ve recently relocated to Kathmandu, and it’s only been a couple of months. To pursue my passion and sustain myself, I perform gigs during the night. However, a recurring issue is that event organizers occasionally offer compensation in the form of food and beverages, a practice I find unsatisfactory. On a public level, inflation seems to play a central role in managing public affairs through financial means.

Another pressing concern is the alarming rise in incidents of theft and burglary. Returning home late at night from gigs feels increasingly unsafe due to this prevalent issue. Sadly, I’m left with no alternative but to face this risk. I suspect that inflation contributes to the surge in criminal activities, possibly aggravating the situation. Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses economic stability, public safety, and fair compensation for individuals like myself, trying to make a living while pursuing their passions.

The Dark Beneath the Waves

Manan Karki

Fiction | Novel

The Dark Beneath the Waves is set in the hinterlands of the Nepali Himalaya, and it’s against this almost ethereal backdrop that the very human narrative unfolds—of treachery and deceit, of guilt and a desperate search for redemption. Marked by the poise and poetry of its language, and its evocation of the landscape in all its grandeur and desolation, the novel is a lyrical exploration of human frailty and of human despair. 

When Breath Becomes Air

Paul Kalanithi

Non-Fiction | Memoir

A profoundly moving, exquisitely observed memoir by a young neurosurgeon faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis who attempts to answer the question ‘What makes a life worth living?’ What do you do when the future, no longer a ladder toward your goals in life, flattens out into a perpetual present? What does it mean to have a child, to nurture a new life as another fades away? These are some of the questions Kalanithi wrestles with in this profoundly moving, exquisitely observed memoir. 

Age of Anxiety

Amrita Tripathi & Kamna Chhibber

Non-Fiction | Self Help

Through this book we will learn how to distinguish between anxiety as “an attack of the nerves” or something that will come and go, and anxiety as a disorder, which will need treatment, including possibly therapy or medication. Co-authored by writer Amrita Tripathi and clinical psychologist Kamna Chhibber,  Age of Anxiety features a foreword by leading psychiatrist Dr Achal Bhagat, and stories and interviews centered around lived experiences. It also features advice and insight from mental health professionals in India, drawing on their own expertise to share information that can help us move the needle on conversations that make a difference.