I had started reading books when I was in class three, and I inadvertently found lots of books for me in my father's bookshelf, which he had started buying from the year I was born. He was probably planning to give them to me at a much later date, but had I instantly become friends with those books.

After that, going to book fairs and buying books became a tradition for me. It started with going with my parents and I continued to do so with my relatives, friends, potential love interests, colleagues, and if no one was available, then all by myself. This year, however. was different.

On February 5, my father was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer. Between his surgery, my hectic office schedule, and a professional course, it was hard to find time to go to this year's Ekushey Boi Mela. But on February 20, I found an opportunity and went to the fair. I didn't have much time, so I went straight to buying books that were on my Goodreads "To Read" list. I bought Mrityu-Khudha, Badhon-Hara, Kuhelika, and Shiuli-Mala by our national poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam; Cancer-er Sathe Bosobas by Jahanara Imam for my mother; and New China 1952 by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, for my father.

Afterwards, I started looking around a bit—not all the book stalls were open. The venue was full of beautiful people, even in this pandemic. I noticed that some people were reluctant to wear masks. Everyone was looking through books for themselves or their loved ones. All the stalls and pavilions were decorated in their own unique way. In particular, the Katha Prakash pavilion caught my eyes. However, I felt the necessity for more information desks as, at times, it was difficult to find the desired bookstalls, but the overall experience was exhilarating as always.

Amar Ekushey Boi Mela 2022 has truly created an ocean of books for book-lovers and spread positivity and joy during this difficult time.

Sadly, I had to rush back to the hospital soon after. And although I am not a kid anymore, I really hope I will be able to go with my father to the book fair next year.

To have your Boi Mela experience featured on The Daily Star, send us your story and your name to [email protected].