Q.1 Tell us a little about yourself?
Perhaps something not many people know?
A. I’m a
nature lover, endowed with creativity and balance, probably because I’m a
Libran. While I’m really spiritual, I enjoy painting, decorating, etc. Anything
creative is therapeutic for me.
Q.2 Are we
going to read more from you soon? Any new project you’re working
on?
A. Hopefully
yes.
Q.3 What did
you do with your first advance?
A. These are
self-published books. So there’s no advance involved.
Q.4 What
advice do you have for writers?
A. Be
original, no matter what. Please do take plagiarism seriously.
Q.5 Does
writing energize or exhaust you?
A. It’s been very therapeutic actually.
Q.6 If you
could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?
A. I would
want to challenge myself to take on more risks with my writing.
Q.7 What are
the most important magazines or websites for writers to subscribe to?
A. I think,
Google is the easiest way out.
Q.8 What was
an early experience where you learned that language had power?
A. At an early age, when I started reading,
there were some stories which really got me thinking. That’s probably when I
realized that language had power.
Q.9 Do you
believe in writer’s block?
A. I do. I
experienced it myself, briefly though.
Q.10 Do you
read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
A. Book
reviews offer valuable feedback. The good ones motivate me to keep writing
while the not so good ones (I wouldn’t say “bad”) challenge me to get more
creative and perfect areas of weakness. I usually consider practical
suggestions and leave out the rest. Thankfully, I haven’t received any negative
feedback.
Q.11 Does
your family supports your career as a writer?
A. Absolutely. My daughter is the inspiration
behind these books.
Q.12 How
long does it take to complete one of your books?
A. Depends.
The Tree of Values was written in about 10 days. Makhan Chor was written in
about 7-8 days. Content literally flowed when I was really in that mood for
writing.
Q.13 How many
books have you written? Which is your favorite?
A. 2 so far.
It’s hard for a mother to choose between her kids, isn’t it? I
really like both books, since they are both unique. The Tree of Values is
based either on real-life experiences(mostly) or a figment of my imagination, and it’s a chapter book. Moreover, the stories in the book, unintentionally,
have turned out to role-play material.
Whereas, Makhan Chor is a picture
book with colorful illustrations. Again, the stories from Krishna’s life
portray values, that are so critical to one’s character. I have humbly
attempted, to draw attention to some of these pristine values and lessons
through this colorful and fun character.
Q.14 Do you
have any unique and quirky writing habits?
A. Am still
figuring it out.
Q.15 What do
you consider being your best accomplishment?
A. These
books have been received quite well. In fact, these books are a hit for return
gifts, etc. Being able to contribute positively towards children’s character development
is something that I would consider as my best accomplishment.
Q.16 What is
the most unethical practice in the publishing industry?
A.
Plagiarism.
Q.17 Who
edited your book and how did you select him/her?
A. My publisher got everything done, so I didn’t really have to look for an editor.
Q.18 Which
famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?
A. Not
really sure.
Q.19 What is
your favorite book and why?
A. It’s
really difficult for me to pick something since there are tons of really good
stuff out there these days. The creativity, unique writing styles, intriguing
plot, etc. across different genres are mind-boggling, I must say.
Q.20 Share
the experience of your journey so far?
A. It’s been quite fulfilling and exciting,
especially to get feedback from children who have read the books. In fact,
recently an 8-year-old girl approached me at a playground and asked, “Aren’t
you the author of The Tree of Values and Makhan Chor?” Nothing can be more
motivating for a writer.
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