"Upto the Valley and Beyond" follows the gripping journey of Ijas Muhammed, a young boy born into poverty and struggles. Determined to improve the condition of his family, Ijas’ pursuit of small dreams takes an unexpected turn when he is recruited by terrorists. Torn between his loyalty to the group and his love for his childhood sweetheart, Ijas grapples with a world that challenges his values. Desperate to escape violence and find peace, he embarks on a journey of selfliberation. This novel explores themes of sacrifice, love, religion, and spirituality, offering a deep reflection on human choices, crime, and punishment. Join the journey of Ijas, navigating a labyrinth of conflicts, seeking a way to escape his troubled fate and redefine his path to freedom. About the Author: Lijin Lakshmanan is a selfmade author, artist, educator, and social activist whose remarkable life journey shapes his powerful narratives. Born in Kerala, Lijin faced immense hardships from an early age, including poverty, childhood sexual abuse, bullying, and political turmoil. Forced to abandon formal education after the 12th grade, he worked hard to support his family, raising livestock. Despite these struggles, he earned an MA, UGC NET, and B.Ed in English and works as an assistant professor. Motivated by justice, Lijin pursues an LLB to challenge societal wrongs. Upto The Valley and Beyond, the first in a trilogy, reflects his experiences and societal observations. Passionate about helping helpless children, Lijin uses his writing and activism to inspire change.
