Author interview: Young Neyati Umamaheswar pens her first book 'Grandmother's Closet'

Congratulations on the release of 'Grandma's Closet'! Is this your first book to have released?

Yes! I wrote this when I was in Grade 3 and am extremely excited to get this published.

You are a really young author. Do you aspire to write more such books in the future?

Yes, writing is my passion and I hope to have the opportunity to write stories of different genres in the future.

What kind of books do you like to read? Do you have a favourite author?

I love to read fantasy and mystery books. They transport me into an entirely different and imaginative universe. My current favourite author is Rick Riordan.

What is the idea/moral of 'Grandma's Closet? Have you been inspired by any story?

The moral of the story is to "Be the change you wish to see".  I haven't been inspired by any specific book or story but the books I have read definitely play a big part in my writing style.

What kind of help did you receive from your parents while developing the story?

My parents have helped me right from the initiation of the title in our little kitchen, to the planning, execution and finally the completion. Most importantly, they have helped in proofreading it multiple times and have continuously motivated and pushed me in getting the story line and cutting down on verbiage.

What kind of feedback have you received on it?

When I first shared it with my friends and teachers at school, I got a lot of praises and accolades from them. My teacher showcased my book to the class and there was a whole period of "Read n Share" dedicated to me and my book. Along with a sense of pride, it also opened up the doors of many hearts for me and I became a much more confident third-grader.

Lastly, do you think the reading habit has dwindled among people of your age? Do you have any advice for young readers?

Yes, the reading habit is slowly starting to fade as many of us are finding Youtube videos much more entertaining and time saving. My sincere advice for fellow young readers is that no amount of gadget or technology can replace the feeling of holding a book physically and diving into its world of knowledge and imagination. Please make it a point to read at least one book a month. You will see a big difference in your vocabulary and expand your thought horizons.