Interview

What book(s) have you written?

This is my first book

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

Writing a children’s book was something I always wanted to try. It was more of a passion project. I love the idea of using words and vibrant images to tell children meaningful stories in a way they will understand.

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

Around 4-5 months to write and finalize 

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

This was a project that I worked on in the evening or over the weekend outside of my day job.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I love rhyming - rhymes are fun to read and write!
 

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

I took inspiration from a childrens book my mom read to me a lot, “Goodnight moon.” It is beautifully written in rhyming verse. The images are also soothing. Even if I flip through that book as an adult, I know it will help me relax and put me to sleep. I wanted Leena’s Pouncy Puppy to be a book that teaches children a valuable lesson about hard work and responsibility. At the same time, I wanted to make it a bedtime story with illustrations of pyjamas, the night sky, and a cozy bedroom.

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

A lot of my work involves writing so I am writing all the time. I am a content strategist at a tech company. I am also the founder of an email newsletter called The NewsRun that provides simple and digestible breakdowns of Pakistan’s top news.

What does your family think of your writing?

They are very encouraging and proud of the book I self-published.

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

Visuals help tell a story as well, which is why I wanted to make sure I partnered with a talented illustrator who could bring my words to life. 

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

My advice is to just start writing. Work on a draft, take notes, and eventually, you’ll start shaping those scattered words into a story. Also, think about what inspires you. It could be school, gardening, food, your pet, anything that will motivate you to spend a lot of time writing. 

What do you think makes a good story?

A valuable lesson. Multi-dimensional characters. Suspense. Imagination. Descriptive imagery.

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

A journalist who traveled around the world to report on important events, conflicts, and breaking news stories.

What is your favorite book?

That’s a tough question! Ill list my top favorites: “To kill a mockingbird”, “Tuesdays with Morrie,” “Rules of Civility,” and all the Dan Brown books 

Where do you live?

San Francisco, California, USA

Fun Facts

Please share 10 Random facts about yourself for your readers!

1. I spend too much money at the container store, because I love organizing with trays, boxes and bins.
2. I used to drink 4 cups of coffee a day, but now I've cut down to 2.
3. I hoard coffee mugs and have a massive collection now.
4. I buy fridge magnets from different countries and cities that I visit as souvenirs.
5. I’ve never been on a roller coaster.
6. I watch re-runs of Friends while I cook.
7. My favorite color is Tiffany Blue.
8. I can eat 99% dark chocolate and I love it!
9. I am not a very chatty or social person, and love having quiet time to myself.
10. When I make a typo, it haunts me forever.