About the Book: Khalid Jawed’s The Book of Death (originally Maut ki Kitaab) is a profound exploration of identity, trauma, and existential despair. The narrative unfolds through a dual-layered structure: a contemporary archaeologist discovers a submerged city’s ruins and an ancient manuscript, leading to the second story—a madman’s diary detailing his life marked by abuse and alienation. Set in the fictional city of Girgita Til Mas, submerged two centuries ago for a hydroelectric project, the novel delves into themes of self-harm, suicide, and societal marginalization. Jawed’s lyrical prose intertwines metaphysical reflections with the mundane, creating a hauntingly surreal narrative.
