This 6-year-old writer is scripting mystery and magic

To dream, imagine and create a world of magic, is a gift unique to children. Growing up reading the American fiction series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeffrey Patrick Kenny, and the Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling, six-year-old Oeshi Sonika, a class 2 student at Apeejay School, Pitampura, is already a published author of a book, ‘The Kids’ Spooky Adventure.’ Inspired by her father, Dr. Ujjwal Sonika, faculty at GB Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, New Delhi, who recently penned down a book about the gut bacteria, Oeshi developed a reading habit in her early childhood. In an interview, the child and her parents speak about her book and how Oeshi came up with its idea. Edited excerpts:

How did the book’s idea come about?    

Oeshi: I have been reading books that have magic, adventure and mystery and I really like them. I wanted to write something like that, which is why I chose a story about Jim, who in his spirit and enthusiasm likes to explore new places, very much like me. As I began, I wrote and completed this book within months.

Dr. Ujjwal Sonika:  My wife Dr. Kanika Mittal, a dermatologist practicing in Rohini and I are avid readers. In our house, we have many books and Oeshi has learnt from there. We introduced her to easy-to-read stories, especially the ones that are published in the magazine, Magic Pot. From there she developed the curiosity to read more and eventually came up with her own. We have also been meticulous in spending time with her and narrating stories to her since we observed her deep interest early on.

Did you always want to be an author?

Oeshi: No, it’s more than that. I want to be many things, a scientist, author, and a veterinary doctor. I just got the idea to publish a book because I saw my father do it.

Dr. Kanika Mittal: We initially did not think about publishing a book, but once Oeshi’s final draft was ready and as we read it, we asked a few editors if it could be published. We were happily surprised when we received positive feedback from them, and that’s how the book came about. We are very happy and proud of Oeshi!  

Which are your favourite authors?

Oeshi: I like JK Rowling because she creates magic. I love it!

What are your hobbies apart from reading/writing?

Oeshi: I like to skate, skip a rope and listen to music.  

Are you planning to write more books?

Yes, and I have my next two books ready to be published. Those would also include tales of mystery and adventure and I am yet to finalise the names of the two. They would probably be: Little Timmy and How The Forest Got Its Colour.