Train Diaries is a hilarious laugh out loud book that gives back respectability to the genre of personal dairies. The main characters were acquaintances at college and accidentally bump into each other while commuting to work in London. From this chance meeting they are instantly drawn into the past experiences of their lives and the stark similarities of their failed relationships. It also allows them to embark on a journey of self discovery, personal healing and an added impetus to experience love in its truest form.
The flair and descriptive style of the author is evident and rampart with the turn of every page. The non-rigid format that's adopted gives it an air of spontaneous flexibility and veracity. For instance the diary vividly portrays the attempts of men and women in their efforts to attract potential partners. In one of the many encounters Idika explains to his friends the conversation he had with a female commuter that had zeroed in on him while on the train; "my answers pleased her and I am sure the ticks on her list of criteria must have been flying because the space between us got smaller and smaller. Then she asked the million dollar question, if I was single, to which I replied yes, trust me she would have hugged me there and then and smothered me with kisses if I didn't say but." The description of our daily exasperation and desperations in our quest to form loving and meaningful relationships is explained with sheer wit and skill. The situations and emotions expose the flaw and need for love, one that every man and woman can easily relate to.
The author is impartial and perceptive at how he conveys and deals with the various subjects raised in TrainDiaries. These puzzling issues are examined and dissected with great aplomb from its root, while endeavouring to expose the where and why of how we have been unable to express love effectively.
Train Diaries will appeal to men and women alike because it is neither soppy nor brash. The format is perfect for reading when you have only a few minutes to spare. But be warned, once you start, you'll find it hard to put it down, since the issues that are profoundly discussed gently and consistently invites you to evaluate the authenticity of your love walk.