Our September author of the month, Shreya Gupta, is only 10-years-old! Shreya Gupta’s book Flamingo Feet is the story of a young girl who dreams about becoming a jazz dancer but drops out of a dance competition after being bullied. She learns to stand up for herself and pursue her dreams. The young author has been featured on CTV National News, her local newspaper and her book won the Mom’s Choice Awards! Not only that, all royalties will go towards a charity that helps young girls in India receive better access to education. Shreya, you are an inspiration!
1. Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Shreya Gupta and I’m 10-years-old. In my spare time, I enjoy raising money for various charities that help young girls access education in developing countries. My goal is to inspire young girls around the world to always chase their dreams, no matter what. In my spare time, I enjoy sketching, reading, and writing stories. I also take jazz dancing lessons which inspired me to write Flamingo Feet, which is about a girl’s dream to jazz dance.
2. What inspired you to write your book?
About a year and a half ago, I took a trip to India with my parents and family. There were a lot of kids who were coming up to me selling pens for money so they could get food. This made me very sad that many kids did not have access to basic needs like food and clothing. I wanted to do something to help out. My grandfather runs a charity that helps girls access education in developing countries like India. I decided this was a great opportunity to get involved with the charity and write a book to raise money for it.
3. How have your personal experiences influenced your book?
I wanted to help children access education. I also wanted to write a book that inspires kids to always chase their dreams, no matter what. The book is about a young girl named Aria who has to overcome bullying. I wanted to write a book about this topic as I feel it’s a very important issue in today’s world.
4. What advice do you have for young authors considering self-publishing a book?
It’s an amazing opportunity and I would definitely recommend it to young authors who are considering self-publishing a book. It’s a very rewarding experience!
5. Tell us about the success you’ve been having with your book. Don’t see shy:)
Both children and adults love my book. I feel so honoured that I have had the privilege to be interviewed on CTV National News and Anokhi Uncensored Live. My message has already reached so many kids around the world! I was also featured in The Cambridge Times for my efforts.
6. How did it feel to be featured in your local newspapers? How did it feel to win the Mom’s Choice Awards?
I felt both honoured and privileged to be honoured in the local newspapers. I was equally excited when I heard the news that Flamingo Feet won the Mom’s Choice Awards.
7. Tell us about the charity in India where the proceeds will go?
Any money I make from the proceeds will be going the charity called Positive and Progressive Educational Support Canada. It is run by my grandfather, Ray Gupta. The charity helps girls in India access education, food, and other resources that they wouldn’t normally have access to.
8. Is there anything else you would like to add?
Always believe in yourself! Never give up on your dreams & shoot for the stars!
Buy Flamingo Feet by Shreya Gupta on Amazon.
Say hi to Shreya on Instagram @flamingo.feet
