Shaun Mehta describes himself as an "Indo-Canadian who loves exploring cultural-specific themes." Don't let this humble reply fool you. His second literary effort, a short story collection aptly titled "A Slice of Life" is a power packed achievement.

Once again, Mehta has displayed an uncanny ability of delving into (presumably) unfamiliar territory. He gives an admirable treatment to each character, regardless of their status. In fact, no one is wasted or superfluous.

Generally, I have found that people either shy away or devour short story collections. Common complaints include dissatisfaction over the lack of depth in the plot or underdeveloped characters.

Mehta is well aware of these concerns and feels those strapped for time will enjoy his work. "With people having increasingly hectic lives from their careers and families, I've found a great number prefer short stories, something they can start and finish in 15 minutes." Perfect for those with short attention spans. "That's why the average length of each story is 15 pages."

15 pages, 12 short stories and 6 themes encompassing a plethora of emotions that cut across all strata's of society-East and West. Each character has been written with complete care and motivation.

Mehta's debut, Divya's Dharma incorporated a patchwork of individuals which, in hindsight, would have worked quite effectively as a short story collection in itself.

Each story is a complete first person glimpse of someone's reality, literally a slice of life, somewhere out in the big, bad world. Yours, mine and the strangers we see but pretend to ignore. Despite the differences in lifestyle, creed and consciousness, each character is connected and tied together by the aforementioned themes. Each is a bead on a fine thread, completely necessary in order to come first circle, in order to be complete.

Amal Arora, the simple Delhi rickshaw driver who lives his life for his family, his profession and his integrity; Kris Kumar and his kid brother Chottu, inseparable latchkey brothers who live in a world of their own; the anniversary of death and solitude and a promise of a new beginning, a reunion with loved ones; Yvette, career woman of today who longs for a family and commitment struggles with doubt and insecurity; preschooler Tyler escapes to a world of fantasy and happiness away from the daily violence that darkens the world of those around him; an anonymous father struggles with terminal illness and his greedy sons, faces his last moments alone and ignored; the outcast writer driven by madness, finds passion and identity; 15-year-old Vikram, searches for meaning and God in a multicultural world filled with conflicting explanations; Amar, a soldier fights the 'enemy' and his demons while caring for his brother; a bullied teenage emerges a hero; an aging communist restores faith in those less fortunate; and an Angel is born in trying circumstances.

What is fast becoming a trademark, Mehta includes a surprise twist in each story. Far from a clichéd approach, he lures you in as a spectator with minimal information, relying heavily on visceral descriptions. The climax, whether used for shock value or as a prop is always unexpected. Perfect styling for a murder mystery!

"After Divya's Dharma, I had so many appealing plot ideas swarming in my head, memories of my childhood, and other interesting things I had learned or researched that I would like to share. I also wanted to undergo an exercise that strengthened and matured my writing…a short story collection achieved both these desires."

For more details on A Slice of Life and to learn more about Mr. Mehta and his upcoming projects, check out www.shaunmehta.com.