Asma Sara Ali

Interview

What book(s) have you written?

Samosas Are So Yummy!
That Can Be Me!

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

My nieces inspired me when they told me how upset they were that books of people who looked like them were hard to find. They were six at the time and I was twenty-eight. It was a huge eye opener for me because at such a young age they were able to realize there was a lack of representation of brown girls in everyday things like books. I knew I had to do something to show them and others like them that the world sees us too.

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

About two years.

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

I had one full time job and one part-time job when I published these two books. Now I look to write whenever I can.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

Rhymes! I love children’s books with rhyming. I feel like its easier to read and understand and it seems so quirky. Growing up, I always enjoyed these types of books; I thought it was so creative that you can come up with so many words to flow rhymically and now I like to use the same method.

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

Samosas Are So Yummy was my first book. The idea came from me wanting to share with others my family’s favorite food. It was a hit. My second book, That Can Be Me! was written with the intention to inspire/remind young girls that whatever profession they choose to work in is possible! I especially wanted to share this mindset with the Muslim/South Asian community. We shouldn’t limit our girls, they’re capable of so much.

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

I love anything creative. Art, music and cooking.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family was super supportive of me wanting to write a book. I first thought it was a silly and impossible and didn’t want to tell people because I thought they would think it’s never going to happen. But when I mentioned it, my sister told me to go for it and I did. They loved the idea and encouraged me to continue.

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

Sometimes, I would say to myself ‘You’re going to write a book? And publish it?’ and I would really wonder if I could get it done. I had no idea where or how to start but to my surprise, I did it. It’s definitely my proudest accomplishment.

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

Do lots of reading! Read anything. The more you read, the better writer you will be.

What do you think makes a good story?

Anything that will remind you of your own life. That can be something that reminds you of your culture, your family, your dreams. When its relatable, it’s intriguing.