Scholar-Journalist of the Week: ‘The Silver Lining in the Covid-19 cloud’

Adam Bashneen’s curiosity for books developed at class 3 at a British Council seminar at school. Since then, the class 7 student has been an avid reader. During the annual book fairs organised at school, he is often found skimming through books of different genres. An overall achiever who dreams of being at Harvard University someday, Bashneen talks about his writing and inspiration in an interview. Edited excerpts:  

What was your inspiration behind the piece- ‘The Silver Lining in the Covid-19 cloud’?

My article was about my personal experience while attending online classes at home. As a student, I wanted to look for a ray of hope amidst a series of gloomy lockdowns during Covid-19. It surely has been a difficult time for everyone. I just wanted to inspire people through my writing and allow them to look at the brighter side of things. I am glad that the piece received massive viewership and the idea resonated with my fellow students.  

What genres and authors do you closely follow?

I am a voracious reader; I have more than 300 books in my home library right now. I like to read science-fiction the most. One of my best reads till now has been: ‘Civilizaciones Desaparecidas’ (Vanished Civilizations) – a book by Reader’s Digest. Some of my favourite authors include children’s writer Enid Blyton and American author Rick Riordan.

Your next piece of writing?

I have been working towards authoring a book. It is likely to be finished by the end of the year.

What is the broad theme for your upcoming book?

I am writing about realms and realities. A thought which often crosses my mind is: What if all this we see in front of us wasn’t real? What if there exists a phenomenon that is stopping us from seeing the ‘real’ world? This is what my book is about, a thread of reality in which several realms, species and stories exist.

Your tips for fellow students wanting to start at writing?

I would say that if they want to write, they should first start reading. Both of these are two ends of a single thread. If you are able to develop an interest at reading, soon you would want to try your own and write as well.

Your future aspirations?

I wish to be part of the prestigious Harvard University someday to pursue a degree in robotics engineering.