We’re excited today to talk to children's author Soumya Torvi. Soumya has turned the tables on Indian mythology to create an empowering girls adventure story that will entertain children around the world.

Tell us about your books?

My book - "A Princess's Quest for Knowledge" is a blend of three 'M's - mystery, mythology and magic, based on the theme of girl child education. It is set in ancient India and narrates the story of Princess Vaishali who is not allowed to go to gurukul (a place of learning) where only boys were sent. Princess Vaishali has a yearning for Knowledge and turns to God for answers. She hears a voice that gives her clues and leads her to a magical pendant. The pendant leads her to further clues, but she transforms into a squirrel while trying to decipher them. The story talks about the challenges that she faces, as she sets out on a journey to attain Knowledge.

Why did you want to write this story?

Writing has been my hobby since childhood. As a child, I heard many beautiful stories from my grandmother which had been passed on to her by word of mouth, through generations. These stories fascinated me and this story was my attempt to recreate the magic of those tales.

What's been the best reaction from a reader so far?

It is overwhelming to receive such positive responses from readers across ages. The story has been lauded for its simple narration, imaginative and gripping storyline.

Where do you find your inspiration?

My children love to listen to stories and love reading books. They are always eager and ready for a new story which motivates me to write for young curious minds.

What's the most fun part of being an author?

The most exciting part of being an author is that you get to create characters, weave the circumstances, create challenging situations and at the same time get into the shoes of the characters and experience them. It's also very interesting to understand the reader's perspective.

What's your tip for parents to encourage reading?

Reading clubs in communities, group reading sessions are great ways to encourage children to read. Every book read can be followed by an activity revolving around that book; for example, the child can redesign the cover page, rename a character, make a cartoon of a character. The activity can be showcased on a colorful reader board at home with special reader badges. This encourages the child to read. Children can also maintain a book bank - a notebook where the child can enter details about all the books read with creative pages as well.

What's your favourite children's book of all time and why?

As a child, I loved reading Nancy Drew. I had read almost all the books in the case files and mystery series. The intriguing plots had me gripped and glues to the books.  

What would you say to someone thinking of writing their first book?

Don't give up. Have a lot of patience and belief in your work. Submit only after you have reviewed, re-checked, taken opinions from near and dear and make sure you check the kind of books the publishers look for and follow the submission guidelines!

You can find out more about Soumya by following her on Facebook and Instagram. You can find her books at Goodreads.

Where to Next?

We hope you enjoyed this insight into Soumya Torvi's latest book and author life.  We'll be sharing more author interviews where you can get a behind the scenes look at some amazing children's authors. The best way to keep in touch with these is through signing up to our newsletter. You can also see our range of children's books in our shop. Plus of course, you can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.