By Navin Agarwal, Educator
Acclaimed author Chatura Rao, known for her captivating books such as Music for Joshua, The Case of Disappearing Colour, and Growing up in Pandupur, took the audience on a literary journey, emphasizing how little things can lead to big discoveries in her books.
Chatura began her session by introducing her latest book, Sweet Shop Wars. As she read aloud passages from her book, the audience was held in rapt attention, drawn into the world she had created. Through her storytelling, Chatura illustrated how most of our stories revolve around seemingly ordinary moments that can transform into extraordinary adventures.
The author emphasized the significance of everyday moments in her writing. She eloquently spoke about how these small instances become the building blocks of her stories, allowing readers to connect with her characters on a personal level. In doing so, Chatura showcased the beauty of ordinary life and the potential for extraordinary discoveries within it.
The author offered glimpses into her picture book, Come Back Soon, Mira, a heart-warming tale of sibling bonds. The book tells the story of a brother and sister and their adventures together. Attendees were quick to appreciate the book’s stunning illustrations and the portrayal of the complex yet loving relationship between siblings.
Over the course of the session, Chatura also read excerpts from her novel Music for Joshua and answered questions from the curious audience. One fascinating revelation was that she had published the same book under the title Music for Junaid in Pakistan, highlighting the universality of her stories and their ability to transcend borders.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Chatura’s storytelling is her ability to craft characters that feel like real people from our everyday lives. The audience marvelled at how she brings relatable, entertaining, and highly readable characters to life. Her characters become friends and companions for readers, making her books a joy to delve into.
In conclusion, Chatura Rao’s session was a celebration of the art of storytelling, where small moments take centre stage. Her ability to weave tales that resonate with the audience, drawn from the tapestry of everyday life, was truly inspiring. As attendees left the session with newfound appreciation for the beauty of the ordinary, they also carried with them a sense of connection to the relatable characters that populate Chatura’s literary world. Her books serve as a reminder that in the small moments, we often find the most profound stories waiting to be discovered.
