MOKOKCHUNG — Author and civil servant Sentilong Ozukum’s sixth novel, “Love Like This,” was launched on Saturday, with the formal ceremony taking place at First Rain in Sangtemla Ward 73G, Mokokchung town.
The book was published by Bookipedia Publications in collaboration with First Rain.
The novel was launched by Ronojyoti Roy, a facilitator at Queen Mary Higher Secondary School and a former teacher of Ozukum.
During his address, Roy lauded the novel as a "riveting story" that fearlessly examines taboo subjects. He expressed particular admiration for how Ozukum has successfully balanced his duties as a civil servant while maintaining his reputation as a literary powerhouse.
"A writer is a keeper of conscience," Roy noted, commending Ozukum's courage in addressing challenging social issues.
In his address, Ozukum shared his hope that readers would find pieces of themselves within the pages of his new work. He revealed the novel's central message: "Sometimes the greatest peace comes from embracing what we already have and not from searching for what we have lost."
The launch featured a literary discussion between the author and Maongienla, assistant professor in the department of English at Fazl Ali College. Their conversation explored the novel's various elements, including its themes, setting, characterisation, point of view, and narrative structure.
It also included a review by Jonathan S Singsit, assistant professor in the department of Environmental Science at Yingli College, while Dr. Bendangrenla Longkumer presented the publisher's perspective on the work.
Sentilong Ozukum's literary career spans over a decade, beginning with his debut novel “Campus Blues” in 2010. His subsequent works include “Sincerely Yours” (2017), “Dreams & Chaos” (2020), “The Case of Longti Village” (2021), and “Teacher Man” (2022).
Beyond the printed page, Ozukum's works have also been adapted into successful web series, theatre productions, and films.