Interview

What book(s) have you written?

• Talaal and The Whispering Worrier

When did you first realize you wanted to be an author?

Since a child, I loved the idea of allowing people to escape through a completely imaginary world where anything can be made 'real'. In Talaal's story, I was able to portray his erratic worry as a silly panda.

How long did it take you to write your book(s)?

It took me just three months to write Talaal's story. 

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

(No response)

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I like to have the draft of my children's book reviewed by parents, teachers, children and clinical counsellors to ensure it's realistic, useful and relatable.
 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

Talaal's story is based on my life experience, the experience of many children I have provided therapy to, the research of psychologists and the teachings of Islamic scholars, the Prophet peace be upon him, and most of all, Allah.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

When I'm not writing, I enjoy doing other creative arts, like pottery, and spending time with family and friends.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family thinks my story is pretty cool. They like how it rhymes and has pretty illustrations. They also like that Talaal's progress is realistic and not an overnight miracle.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

The most surpising thing I learned in creating my book is that you can get an ISBN and it's free. A simple surprise but cool, nevertheless. To get one made me feel like I was in a special club of authors! 

Do you have any suggestions to help people become a better writer? If so, what are they?

Always seek feedback from others and be open to making those changes even though you don't want hundred percent agree with it. The reason is: just because something makes sense in your mind doesn't mean that it will be received the same way by everyone else, and the most important thing is that your message is received by your audience. 

What do you think makes a good story?

A relatable story that can personally touch any reader, and will make them feel hope is what makes a good story.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I think I first wanted to be a firefighter, then a doctor, then a forensic detective, then an international relief worker, then an interior decorator and then a clinical counsellor. I'm sure that wasn't all of it either!

What is your favorite book?

Epic of Gilgamesh.  

Where do you live?

Canada

Fun Facts

Please share 10 Random facts about yourself for your readers!

1. I once flew over an active volcano and saw the lava splashing around.
2. I enjoy trying new international foods.
3. I was once an "extra" in a movie that was filmed at my high school.
4. I can make pottery on a pottery-wheel.
5. Thai food is my favourite cuisine.
6. I've owned two red-eye tree frogs before.
7. I've driven on the "opposite (left)" side of the road in St. Lucia
8. Passionfruit juice is my favourite juice.
9. I slept overnight in a hammock in the amazon jungle.
10. All my life, I've lived down the road from the hospital where I was born.