BOOK REVIEW
in
Literature & Fiction
March 5, 2025
Chisels and Scalpels: A Tale of Resilience, Art, and Healing Across Time
by Dr. Maya Mitra Das
Reviewed by Cheska Konrad
Book Browse Reflection
There are two main characters, Niccolò: whose character is shaped by his tragic personal history, including the sudden loss of his father at a young age. The author portrays him as a boy thrust into responsibilities beyond his years, taking on the burden of supporting his family. His character grows through his quiet resilience and eventual recognition by Lorenzo, who sees potential in him. Niccolò’s journey from a grieving child to a promising artist is inspiring and relatable, showcasing his determination and growth.
Rudy: Rudy’s character is shaped by his struggles. Coming from a humble background as a refugee after the partition of India, Rudy’s ambition to become a surgeon drives him to leave everything familiar and venture into the unknown. His courage, resourcefulness, and determination are evident as he boards a ship to England with minimal resources, relying only on his skills and dreams. His challenges and sacrifices highlight his perseverance and make his character deeply compelling.
Dr. Das develops her characters by drawing thematic parallels between the two protagonists, despite their vastly different worlds:
• Niccolò and Rudy are “artists” in their own right—Niccolò is a sculptor, and Rudy is a surgeon, and the tools they use, whether chisels or surgical instruments, symbolize their creativity and skill.
• The struggles of both characters revolve around loss, perseverance, and finding purpose. Niccolò channels his grief into art, while Rudy finds inspiration in Niccolò’s biography to overcome his challenges. This connection across time adds depth to their characters and underscores the novel’s central theme of timeless human resilience.
Dr. Maya Mitra Das develops her characters with emotional depth, historical and cultural richness, and thematic connections. Niccolò and Rudy are shaped by their struggles and triumphs, making them relatable and inspiring to readers.