Neha Bansal’s “Her story” is a compelling collection of 39 story poems that presents a
striking critique of the historical, cultural, and personal oppression faced by women. This collection wonderfully combines elements of mythology, societal experiences, and individual reflections, creating a mosaic that spans both ancient and modern contexts.

The biggest asset of the book is the layers in which the issues like sexual violence, body shaming and expectation are portrayed. Her reimagining of mythological figures like Draupadi, Ahalya, and Surpanakha gives these characters new voices, casting a feminist lens on their ancient struggles. Poems such as “The Fall of Draupadi” challenge the glorification of endurance, asking pointed questions about the cost of resilience. This thematic interplay between myth and modern-day struggles is powerful, offering readers a bridge between the past and present.

One of the anthology’s standout aspects is its use of vivid imagery and symbolism. Her poems are at their best when they evoke emotional introspection without becoming too didactic. Nevertheless, there are occasional pieces of the writing which appear overly pedantic in their endeavor to provide a clear social critique. Issues such as arranged marriages, or honor killings as depicted in some of the poems are discussed in what can benefit from additional depth. Some of the works are either too short or limited in scope to allow for the proper development of the critical issues, which are thus presented in a more ‘snapshot’ approach.

The inclusion of Dhruv Nath Singh’s illustrations is a commendable touch, adding depth and visual resonance to the poems. These images complement the poems, enhancing the reading experience by offering additional layers of interpretation.

In conclusion, it is a bold and thought-provoking collection which aptly brings the oppressed women into the limelight while combining the myths with modern problems. While the anthology is not without its shortcomings—occasionally oversimplifying complex narratives—it remains an important contribution to feminist literature.