Interviews
Scholar-Journalist of the Week: Books – Our best friends
This week’s winner, Tejas Bhatia says, “My father encouraged me to start reading during Covid-19”
A class 6 student of Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector 15, Tejas is a talented and humble boy. Besides attending school, he spends his time reading storybooks, text books and newspapers. His favourite author is Ruskin Bond and the novel, The Blue Umbrella is his go-to read. In the following interview, the 10-year-old tells us more. Read on edited excerpts:
Tell us more about your interests/hobbies.
I like to play and watch cricket and football. I am also fond of reading fiction and horror-based stories.
Since you mentioned your interest in cricket, tell us which team you are supporting in the ongoing Indian Premier League?
I am supporting ‘Mumbai Indians’ because Rohit Sharma is my favourite player. The team has also won the IPL most times! I usually watch these matches with my father. It is great fun!
Why did you pick the topic ‘Books – Our best friends’ for a Scholar-Journalist?
During Covid-19, as I spent most of my time at home, my father encouraged me to start reading. And so, I started with a few books. Eventually, I developed the habit of reading. With time, I began to gain interest in different genres, styles of writing, etc. Then I wrote my own. So, that’s why I chose this topic. It only took me about 25-30 minutes to pen down the article.
What’s the environment at home like?
It’s nothing out of the ordinary, really! I return from school, eat, do homework and rest. After that, I play with my friends in a nearby park. Cricket and football are my favourite sports. That really sums it up for me.
How do you manage time between reading and school work?
I mostly catch up on my reading during the weekends. The rest of my week is devoted to school and homework, activities and projects, just to name a few.
The last book you read?
Night of the Leopard by Ruskin Bond. It displays a beautiful relationship between humans and animals.
Any writing tips for your classmates?
I will say that having an introduction and conclusion makes your write-up look comprehensive. So, it should be there. They can try to use some new words too, if possible, but ensure to check the dictionary before including it in any article.
