Book Review: One Night at the Call Center
Title:
One Night at the Call Center
Author:
Chetan Bhagat
Publication:
Rupa Publications
Publication Year:
2005
Genre:
Fiction (Contemporary, Realistic)
Language:
English (Original)
About the Author:
Chetan Bhagat, born on April 22, 1974, is a bestselling Indian author, columnist, and motivational speaker. Known for his contemporary novels focusing on the aspirations and struggles of young Indians, Bhagat has become one of India’s most popular writers. His debut novel, Five Point Someone, was a major success and many of his books have been adapted into Bollywood films, further boosting his popularity.
About the Book:
One Night at the Call Center is set in a call center in Gurgaon, India, and revolves around six employees who work the night shift. The story takes place over the course of one night and follows their personal struggles, professional challenges, and relationship issues. The pivotal moment of the story is when the characters receive a phone call from God, leading them to reassess their lives and decisions. Through this encounter, Bhagat explores themes such as ambition, societal pressures, friendship, and the quest for self-realization. The book effectively captures the frustrations and aspirations of young professionals in a modern, globalized India.
Language of the Book and Writing Style:
Chetan Bhagat uses simple, conversational language, making the book accessible and engaging for a wide audience. The novel is fast-paced and easy to read, filled with humor and relatable dialogues. Bhagat combines light-hearted moments with deeper reflections, making the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. The book contains 290 pages and is structured to keep the reader’s attention with its witty tone and engaging narrative.
My Opinion About the Book:
I think One Night at the Call Center is a fun and relatable read for young professionals, especially those working in the corporate world. Bhagat successfully mixes humor with a touch of spirituality to highlight the modern-day challenges people face. The novel addresses workplace stress, societal expectations, and personal relationships in an entertaining yet meaningful way. While the story may not be overly complex, the supernatural twist adds a refreshing layer to the narrative, making it an enjoyable and inspiring read.