Becoming the Light: Nagas’ very own super-hero book released

Morung Express News
Dimapur | November 27

Allen Aley’s debut book ‘Becoming the Light’ was formally released this evening, here at Hotel Saramati by Likokba Sangtam, Documentary Filmmaker, Managing Director of Insight NPSC Coaching Centre Dimapur and JDA, Treasuries and Accounts, Government of Nagaland. The fantasy fiction, dubbed as “Nagas’ very own super-hero” was published by PenThrill Publication House. 

Congratulating Aley on his debut book, Sangtam said that he has known the author since their college days at Patkai Christian College. From penning down things at college days to being an Editor of the college's bulletin, he said that Aley was always expressive and loved to share his thoughts through his writings. That was 11 years back and “today, he expressed delight to be witnessing this very moment, where Aley is now releasing his debut novel. “He has now solidified himself as an author,” he added.

Reflecting on society’s role models, who for the most part comes from the film, entertainment and sports fraternities to name a few, “which is nonetheless good,” Sangtam believed that “it is high time we also have a role model who comes from academic fields, who are intellectuals, writers and authors. It is with so much of delight, I stand here congratulating Allen.”

With this book release, Sangtam hoped that the people, including him will draw an inspiration from it and that it will also prick the conscience of readers and actively participate in the meaningful transformation of the society.

Giving a review on the book, Children Pastor of Sümi Baptist Church Bamunpukhuri, Libo Evan Murumi said that the first thing that captivated her was the exceptionally intriguing image on the cover. “And lo and behold! The first 10 seconds into the book and I was already charmed. The book had me from the very first chapter,” she said. 

Stating that the experience is best when you don’t know what to expect, Murumi said that she will reveal little to no spoilers on the book. “‘Becoming the Light’ as a book is more elaborate than your average hero versus villain narrative.”

The fantasy fiction unfolds the story of a young man on his heroic quest within a universe where there is magic and supernatural powers surrounding. The book speaks to relatively a larger group of audience. While there are elements of action and adventure, which can be thrilling and exciting for younger readers, it is also at the same time “very bleak and mindboggling for the older readers as well,” she said. In this sense, Murumi said that the book could be a personal favorite for both the younger and older audience. “As you read on, one cannot help but notice the creative aspect of writing. There is a rich use of scenic words that stimulates the reader’s sense of sight, touch and movement along with the characters.”

The author’s power of imaginative storytelling keeps you immersed in the skillfully designed world of magic that he has created, she added, further appreciating how the book offers both leisure reading for a good weekend, as well as bringing out the good aspect of family, love, belongingness, human virtues like courage, integrity and also life affirming questions like “Who am I and what is my purpose in life.”

Celebrating the man of the hour, or rather” the author of the hour,” Murumi whose friendship goes back to 2012, acknowledged Aley for letting her be a part of the book launch and also hoped that the book follows a sequel. 

Aley in his note, acknowledged his family and friends on being a part of a “major milestone” in his life. The 30-year old author thanked God, his families, friends and everyone who helped him in different aspects in bringing his dreams to life. The whole 3-year journey on writing the book has made Aley closer to God and also taught him the art of patience and to trust “God’s timing always.”

A trivia, he spilled out was that “Becoming the Light” is part-one of the super-hero saga.”Please continue to support writers, because without them, there would be no storytellers and there would be no meaning to words,” he added in his concluding remark. The author currently works as a Coordinator for LaunchPad at YouthNet and Joint Director at Dimapur 24/7.