June 16, 2025
What inspired you to write children’s books?
I believe characters are the essence of a story. As a young reader, I was immersed in the lives of characters I found in books. Then, around age eight, I realised I could create my own characters, believing in them just as much as those created by other authors. Writing was an extension of my reading practice. I loved going on journeys with characters and understanding their experiences. I believe a deep, human connection with characters is what readers seek in a story. From an early age, I had already learnt that the most engaging stories, whether fiction or non-fiction, are the ones that readers can relate to.
Have you been inspired by real-life events or people?
Rather than incorporating real-life events or people, I tend to observe people around me and develop my own characters. However, on rare occasions, a single encounter has sparked an idea that later grew into a book. One such instance saw me feature my first Indian character. During a visit to Mussoorie, I met a writer named Advaita, who shared her experiences of leaving home for a boarding school. I was captivated by her journey and felt compelled to use her name in one of my books.
Why do you think topics such as emotions, family and adventure are an important part of children’s literature?
It’s important to engage children through entertainment and making that entertainment relatable enhances the experience. Quite often in my books, I include a family member to help children navigate challenges. For example, in the Jake Series, it’s most often Jake’s grandmother or father who help him out. Children have important adults in their lives and they rely on these figures to help them navigate small challenges. In overcoming these problems, they not only grow, but also have fun. I’m a strong advocate for empowering children and this includes the ability to call for help when needed. I’ve also had a deep interest in resilience, and through research, I’ve found that imagination plays a crucial role in it. Often, our problems seem challenging, but if we can look beyond them or find creative ways around them, we can overcome almost anything.
What is the most challenging part about writing?
For me, the biggest challenge has been the physical demands of writing. Sitting for long hours and working intensely does take a toll. But despite staying active, no one escapes it completely— your body complains.
How do you refresh your mind and overcome writer’s block?
The best way for me to feel refreshed is to step away and do some form of exercise. I enjoy swimming, long walks and sometimes, jogging. Being in nature, whether at a park or a beach, helps refresh my mind, so when I return, I do so with a fresh perspective.
You’ve visited India several times. What do you like about India?
I’ve visited India around 26 times. From my very first trip in 2006, I was captivated by the country. What makes India special for me is the people, including the children. The energy, vibrancy and openness of conversations here inspire me. And as a creative person, one thing is certain—I’m never bored in India.
In today’s digital age, how can books help in reducing screen time?
Books should always be within reach! If they are not accessible, children might never get the chance to explore them. When books are easy to find, curiosity takes over. Some children might even escape into a book as a break from screens.
What advice would you give budding authors?
Writing should be enjoyable! When you love what you do, you’ll naturally want to do it more and that’s how you improve. If you focus only on becoming a better writer, you might not have fun. But when you write with your heart and soul, truly loving the process, that’s when you grow. Writing needs to come from within, and if it does, you’ll become a true writer.
IT’S OKAY TO BE NOT OKAY
Written By: Ken Spillman
Illustrated By: Vibha Surya
Price: ₹399
Recommended Age: 5+ years
Published By: Scholastic India Pvt Ltd | www.scholastic.co.in
Available on Amazon
