The book launch of “The Light After The Storm”, by Vibeituonuo Kuotsu Solo was held at Ete Coffee, Kohima on October 31.
“The Light After The Storm”, a compelling collection of 13 short stories, was formally launched by Special Guest Asangla Imsong, Joint Director of the Department of Information and Public Relations.
Asangla Imsong, who was the special guest of the event, praised “The Light After The Storm” as a deeply hopeful and work that captures life’s resilience. The title, she noted, conveys a powerful message: that hope and something good await beyond life’s storms.
Imsong described the book as a simple yet beautiful read, rich in reflection and rooted in Naga tradition, touching on themes like motherhood, love, and cultural heritage.
Imsong said that reading the book evoked nostalgia and memories of her own childhood. She praised Solo for articulating experiences many women feel but rarely express, bringing to life the strength and emotions of womanhood and motherhood in relatable ways.
Imsong also lauded PenThrill Publication House and its publisher for promoting local writers, noting that Krocha had ventured into a field few dared to pursue. She congratulated PenThrill on its 112th publication, a significant milestone.
PenThrill Publication Publisher, Vishü Rita Krocha in her publishers note mentioned that “The Light After The Storm,” a collection of 13 powerful stories by Vibeituonuo Kuotsu Solo is resembling her courage and resilience.
Krocha said that as a fellow journalist and friend, she has had the privilege of witnessing Vibei’s (Author) journey. This book, Krocha said is a testament to her strength, transforming her life’s struggles into stories that will resonate with all.
The stories in this book, Krocha maintained are a reflection of society, addressing critical issues that are often left unspoken. From broken relationships to a mother’s sacrifice, conflict, and the complexities of Naga family dynamics, these stories will strike a chord with readers. But beyond the problems, Krocha said this book is about hope and the light that awaits.
“I am proud to publish “The Light After The Storm,” marking PenThrill’s 112th publication. The response to the book has been overwhelming, with our pre-release copies selling out. I have every confidence that this book will positively impact readers and change the way we think about Naga women and the complex situations they face” , Krocha noted .
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Vibeituonuo Kuotsu Solo, the author expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone present, crediting the Lord Almighty for her success and thanking her family and friends for their unwavering support.
Solo described “The Light After The Storm” as a blend of imagination and raw emotion, weaving fiction with personal truths. Her deepest hope is that the book will empower those trapped in unhealthy relationships to find the courage to break free. She emphasized that speaking openly about broken marriages and relationships without shame is essential, and her book is a plea to shatter the silence, particularly.
Solo also shared her journey as a writer, which began in Class IX when her English teacher encouraged students to maintain a diary. She narrated that she had borrowed her father’s government-issued diary and started writing. Years later, meeting renowned writer Easterine Kire rekindled her passion for writing. Kire’s advice to “just write anything that’s on your mind” had a profound impact on Solo.
Solo expressed gratitude to her publisher and friend Vishu Rita Krocha for believing in her work and supporting Naga writers. She also thanked Athole, the illustrator, and everyone involved in making the book launch possible.
The event commenced with a heartfelt prayer led by Kezhakietuo Belho, Associate Pastor of Khedi Baptist Church Kohima, followed by a soulful song presented by Kekhrieyie Belho.
The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate this significant literary milestone.
