Lex Limbu is a blogger and the force behind Tracing Nepal. He is dedicated to connecting Nepali youth abroad with their roots. He began blogging in 2008 and in 2014, he established a travel company, Tracing Nepal, which brings together Nepali youths worldwide to explore their homeland.
Limbu says he aims to strengthen the ties between Nepal and its global diaspora, providing an opportunity to relive their heritage. Through his blog, lexlimbu.com, he captures the essence of Nepal’s culture and shares the stories of the Nepali diaspora.
In an interview with Post’s Aarati Ray, Limbu shared his passion for reading books.
How did your reading journey begin?
I didn’t get into reading until I was in my mid-teens. In 2000, after moving from Brunei to the UK, I gave Harry Potter a shot but found it difficult to understand. Reading posed quite a challenge for me until I turned 16.
Later on, as I started following celebrities, I became curious about the books they enjoyed. So, I started reading books mentioned by the figures I admired. That’s how I tumbled into the never-ending world of books. For me, it was my interest in celebrities that kick-started my reading journey.
What is a book that has significantly influenced you?
One book that has stayed with me is ‘A New Earth’ by Eckhart Tolle. I first heard about it from Jharana Bajracharya in an interview about books.
This book seeped into my thoughts and altered my perspective on things. I recall the impact it had on me and the emotions it stirred. Finishing it took me some time because it prompted my journey of self-reflection. The lessons from the book are something I still carry with me today.
What are you reading these days?
I moved to Nepal around 11 months ago, and in December, I started a small book club with four friends. Usually, we would hang out, eat and chat, but I wanted to do something more meaningful, so we started reading fiction together. I was also part of an office book club when I worked in the UK. We also focused on fiction; we read one book a month and discussed it over Zoom.
Usually, I’m more into non-fiction, like spiritual and self-help books and autobiographies. However, these book clubs are steering me towards fiction these days.
Recently, I finished reading Krishna Dharabasi’s ‘Radha’. Before that, I read ‘Antar’ by Ramesh Sayan, which was released in 2023, and I was invited as a guest for the book launch. The narrative revolves around a character exploring their identity and sexual orientation. I found the book enjoyable, primarily due to its empowering conclusion.
Given your upbringing in the UK, how connected are you with Nepali literature?
Despite growing up in the UK, I have always stayed connected with Nepali literature. Around 2005 and 2006, I was reading books by Samrat Upadhyay, including ‘Arresting God in Kathmandu’. I was around 14 then, so I might not have fully understood it, but it gave me a glimpse into life in Kathmandu. ‘Arresting God in Kathmandu’ helped me understand the city and its people when I lived there for two years.
Some of my favourite Nepali books are ‘Palpasa Cafe’, ‘Karnali Blues’ and ‘Radha’. Besides mainstream writers, I’ve enjoyed works by authors like Bhumika Shrestha from the Blue Diamond Society. Her book, ‘Bhumika: Tesro Lingiko Atmakatha’, is phenomenal.
One of the reasons I read books in Nepali is to improve my language skills. I also read Nepali newspapers, including Kantipur, which has helped me stay connected with Nepali literature and language.
Who are your favourite authors?
I have favourite genres rather than favourite authors. I’m drawn to spiritual and self-help books. Sometimes, I read bestsellers not because I love the author but to understand what people are interested in and how these authors think. Even if I don’t agree with everything in a book, I still read it to grasp different viewpoints. That’s why I lean more toward having favourite genres than authors. If I like one book from an author, it doesn’t mean I’ll love all their other books. However, I always finish a book, even if I stop liking it midway through. I think it’s not fair to the book if I leave it unfinished and I wouldn’t have the right to discuss it.
What are your thoughts on the current state of Nepali literature?
I’m still acquainting myself with Nepali literature, so I won’t claim to be an expert. However, based on my experience, I’ve noticed a beautiful richness in how Nepali authors express themselves. The language feels poetic, making even simple things sound beautiful. Translating these expressions into English might not capture the same beauty and originality.
I do think we need more diverse characters with varied life experiences in Nepali literature. And, not every story has to revolve around Kathmandu.
How important is the habit of reading books in today’s world?
Developing a reading habit is essential, even if it’s not books you read. Nowadays, people just glance at headlines without reading the whole news. With our attention spans getting shorter, reading habits have become more important than ever.
I share the books I’ve read and my thoughts on them on social media. If we can post stories about the momo we eat or the places we visit, why can’t we share the books we read?
It’s important to read things other than what we generally like. We must explore beyond our interests to avoid getting stuck in a bubble. Also, read books written on the same subject by different authors. This way, you get different perspectives on the same thing and get to critically analyse their viewpoints to come to a conclusion of your own.
In a time where we often form opinions just by skimming headlines, creating a reading habit is more crucial than ever.
What advice would you give to someone starting their reading journey?
Begin with something you already enjoy. If you love football, pick up a short book about it. Then, try a book by your favourite football player. Take it step by step, develop a habit and get recommendations from others. You will naturally discover your favourite genres.
Don’t compare your reading habits to others and don’t buy into the idea that books aren’t interesting. There’s bound to be something for everyone; maybe you haven’t found your match yet.
Starting with audiobooks is also a good idea. Create small bookish spaces where you can talk or share about books. If you thrive with accountability, gather friends and start a reading circle. Remember, it’s about enjoying the journey, so take it at your own pace.
Lex Limbu’s book recommendations
A New Earth
Author: Eckhart Tolle
Publisher: Viking Press
Year: 2005
Tolle’s book has made me think and self-reflect a lot. It took me a long time to finish it as I’d have to re-read sections or just sit and think about how the things mentioned applied to me and who I was.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Author: Malcolm X, Alex Haley
Publisher: Grove Press
Year: 1965
I recommend ‘The Autobiography of Malcolm X’ to learn more about black civil rights leaders and movements. Malcolm X’s powerful story touched me greatly. I could not help but wonder how things would be if he was not assassinated.
People Like Us
Author: Hashi Mohamed
Publisher: Profile Books
Year: 2020
Mohamed writes about his journey from East Africa to the UK and what it takes to make it and be successful in the UK in ‘People Like Us’. This book is relatable for the diaspora as we can resonate with parts of his journey, struggles and success.
Nothing To Envy
Author: Barbara Demick
Publisher: Spiegel & Grau
Year: 2009
‘Nothing To Envy’ got me deeply fascinated with the lives of people in North Korea. The collection of stories in this book breaks your heart and makes you hopeful and speechless all at the same time. This is a heavy read.
Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda
Author: Becky Albertalli
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Year: 2015
The book is about Simon, an awkward teenager who’s coming to terms with his sexual orientation and trying his best to navigate through high school. I loved reading this book and wondered how nice it would have been to find a book like this when I was younger.