Beyond the Box
I had a really lovely session on my book The Guardians of the Forest at Beyond the Box, a space for children where thinking goes beyond the ordinary and curiosity is always encouraged. What made this session especially meaningful was that the children had read the book before we met. This allowed them to ask thoughtful questions rooted in the story, the characters, and the ideas I had explored while writing it. Their engagement turned the session into a conversation rather than a one sided discussion.
The children were completely engrossed in the book because of its elements of magical realism, the sense of adventure, and the mysterious shadows that run through the story. These details sparked their curiosity and kept them turning pages, eager to uncover what lay beneath the forest canopy. It was heartening to see how deeply they connected with the narrative.
We spoke about the impact of tourism on India’s natural landscapes, particularly our mountains, and why awareness is such an important first step if we hope to protect these fragile ecosystems. The discussion made it clear that eco fiction does not have to be heavy or didactic. It can be thrilling, immersive, and full of wonder.
Overall, it was a truly enriching experience, and I left feeling hopeful after listening to young readers who are already thinking deeply about the world around them.
