It’s not every day that an author receives a review as insightful and beautifully written as P. J. Gudka’s take on Reunion: Coda. I’ve long admired Pooja’s ability to balance depth and clarity in her reviews, and seeing Coda through her lens has been both humbling and rewarding.
First and foremost, thank you, Pooja—for not only reading Reunion: Coda but for truly engaging with its themes, characters, and emotional undertones. Your words highlight the very elements I hoped to convey: the unpredictable turns that shape our lives, the weight of memory, and the complex dance of human connection. To see these aspects resonate with you is deeply meaningful.
I particularly appreciate how you emphasized the authenticity of the characters—Jim, Mark, Marty, and Maddie. As a storyteller, my goal has always been to craft individuals who are flawed yet real, people who remind us of the friendships, regrets, and second chances in our own lives. Your recognition of their depth is one of the greatest compliments an author can receive.
Your mention of the images within the book stood out as well. They weren’t just visual additions but a way to bridge the world between author and reader, allowing the story’s environment to be experienced more vividly. Knowing that they added to your reading experience is incredibly satisfying.
Most of all, I value your reflection on the themes of loss, nostalgia, and the passage of time. We all grapple with these, whether in quiet moments of introspection or in the stories we cling to. Coda was, in many ways, an exercise in coming to terms with these universal emotions, and I’m honored that its message resonated with you.
For anyone who has yet to discover Pooja’s book reviews or her collection of poetry, All the Words I Kept Inside, I highly recommend diving into her thoughtful perspectives—they are a gift to authors and readers alike.
Pooja, your words mean the world. Thank you for reading Reunion: Coda—and for sharing your insights with such generosity and care.
A Certain Point of View, Too 
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4 responses to “A Grateful Reflection on Pooja Gudka’s Review of ‘Reunion: Coda’”
This was so touching to read, as a writer I know how important reviews are and knowing someone else understood what you were trying to communicate with your words is so rewarding. Thank you for sharing Jim’s world with us through both books, they were a pleasure to read!
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Pooja, your words mean the world to me. As a writer, knowing that the story resonated with you—that Jim’s journey spoke to you in the way I hoped—makes all the effort worthwhile. Thank you for taking the time to share this. It truly means a lot!
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You’re most welcome and thank you for sharing my book too!
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You’re absolutely welcome, Pooj!
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