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Interviewed on January 2023
1. Hello! Please tell me about yourself! You may start wherever you’d like.
Answer: Hi! My name is Shreya! I’m an eighth grader, and I love to read, write, draw, dance, and sing!
2. When did you start writing, and what makes you enjoy it?
Answer: I started writing from a very young age. I remember being on a trip with my family when I was 6. And I wrote a small story in my sketchbook because I didn’t bring an actual notebook with me. I think writing allows me to express my feelings and experiences through characters, and through myself. I love writing personal narratives because I am able to channel my emotions into writing and make something that others will also enjoy!
3. What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
Answer: The most difficult part is definitely a lack of motivation. There are so many times when I have such a good idea for a story in my head, but I never write it because I don’t have a reason to. Especially when I’m having writer’s block, it is hard for me to keep having the urge to write.
4. Now, you have published a children’s fantasy novel ‘’ The Hidden Realm’’. Congratulations on that! So, How does writing this make you feel, and how does being published make you feel?
Answer: I feel very proud and thankful. It was a long process, and I didn’t want to publish it for a long time because I was scared of how people would react to it. Eventually, I got over that block, and I published it. When I first felt it in my hands, I couldn’t believe I had actually written what was inside. I’m super grateful for this wonderful experience, and to have had the opportunity to publish the book.
5. Can you tell me the story behind your recent book? What gives you inspiration for your work?
Answer: “ The Hidden Realm” follows the main character, Rachel, and her journey through a painting she had made. Inside, she sets foot into a magical place called, The Hidden Realm. She becomes friends with the creatures there and helps them defeat the villain, Ash, who is taking over the Hidden Realm at an alarming rate. Reading and watching movies definitely gives me inspiration for writing. Listening to music also inspires my writing process.
6. Is there any future writings in the works? If so, What is it about?
Answer: As of right now, I do have some ideas for another potential book, but the words in my head have not been written down yet.
7. Writers can experience some level of writer's block, which could stem from fear of failure or criticism that prevents us from writing. How do you deal with that? And do you have any tips for others on how to overcome this?
Answer: Definitely! I have experienced a lot of writer’s blocks, but sometimes the best thing is to take a step away and do the things you love to do. I normally listen to music or hang out with my friends. When I get back to my piece after a break, I look at it from a whole new perspective. It allows me to come up with new ideas, and change things that don’t make sense.
8. What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?
Answer: The best way to improve is definitely to keep practicing!
9. If you could spend a day with a famous author, whom would you choose?
Answer: If I could spend a day with a famous author, I would have to choose Colleen Hoover!
10. Have you read anything that makes you think differently about life? Can you share some of your favorite books so far?
Answer: Of course! My favorite books so far are Wonder, Four Dead Queens, the Harry Potter Series, the To All the Boys I’ve Ever Loved Series, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, and a bunch more! Reading all these books has helped me expand my thinking and given me many new ideas on how to improve my writing.
11. Finally, what would you say to young creatives trying to craft their ethic?
Answer: I would say to never give up, and to keep writing every day!
That’s the end of our interview session, thank you so much for your participation!
You may check out and purchase Shreya's novel here! https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Realm-Shreya-Sharath/dp/B0B49N753M/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=DLR00Y9KV3B8&keywords=hidden+realm+shreya&qid=1658582839&sprefix=%2Caps%2C333&sr=8-2
Interviewed by Saufa Natzira
Cover page by Brianna Paulino
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