- What inspired you to write for a younger audience, and how do you approach crafting a story that resonates with children?
The inspiration came from my co-author and daughter, Aahira. Writing “Mira’s Resolve” was a way to connect with her and inspire her creativity while also delivering a meaningful message. We crafted the story to resonate with children by focusing on themes they encounter, such as self-discovery, courage, and the power of belief, and by embedding these in a vibrant, magical setting that appeals to young imaginations.
- Children’s books often carry important messages. Can you tell us about the themes or values you aimed to convey in your latest book?
“Mira’s Resolve” emphasizes love, faith, and courage, highlighting how belief in oneself can lead to transformation and positive change. Through Mira’s journey, we aim to inspire children to face challenges with resilience and find their inner strength. The story also reflects the importance of harmony with nature, subtly encouraging mindfulness about our environment.
- Illustrations play a crucial role in children’s books. How did the collaboration with the illustrator enhance the storytelling, and what was the creative process like?
Our vision for the book drew inspiration from the beautifully illustrated works of authors like Debi Gliori and Judith Kerr. Collaborating with Maurin Singh, our illustrator, was a deeply immersive experience. We shared our vision of Mira’s enchanting world and the emotions woven into each scene, and Maurin’s exceptional creativity brought Mira and her surroundings to life, adding layers of depth and whimsy that perfectly complement the story.
- Connecting with young readers is essential. How do you strike a balance between entertaining and educating in your children’s books?
We believe storytelling should engage the heart and mind. “Mira’s Resolve” blends an adventurous, magical narrative with subtle life lessons. By embedding values like courage and self-belief within Mira’s exciting journey, the book entertains while offering meaningful takeaways that resonate with children and their families.
- Your characters are charming and relatable. How do you create characters that children can identify with, and do they draw from your own childhood experiences?
Mira’s character reflects qualities and challenges familiar to many children, such as facing fears and discovering inner strengths. While some aspects of Mira draw from childhood experiences, her story is primarily inspired by observing my daughter, Aahira—curious, imaginative, and uniquely brave.
- In the digital age, children have various forms of entertainment. How do you see the role of children’s books in fostering a love for reading and storytelling?
Children’s books remain vital in developing imagination, empathy, and critical thinking. They offer a tactile, immersive experience that screens can’t replicate. By creating engaging, beautifully designed stories like “Mira’s Resolve,” we hope to foster a lifelong love of reading, providing a counterbalance to digital entertainment.
- The language and writing style in children’s books are distinct. How do you tailor your writing to engage young readers while maintaining a level of sophistication that can grow with them?
We used simple yet evocative language that appeals to younger readers while introducing concepts they can grow into. The magical world of Mira is described with vivid imagery, inviting curiosity while nurturing an appreciation for nuanced storytelling. The balance ensures the story is accessible and timeless.
- Family and educators often play a role in introducing children to books. How do you envision your books being used in educational settings or as part of family reading routines?
“Mira’s Resolve” is designed to spark discussions between children and their parents, caregivers or teachers. Its themes can be explored in classrooms to encourage values like self-confidence and environmental awareness. Families can also enjoy the story during shared reading sessions, fostering bonding and meaningful conversations about the book’s messages.
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