Snigdha Bhushan goes by the pseudonym Penny as the ‘pen’ is her dearest pal. She has contributed stories to children’s magazines and has authored a collection of folk tales for children titled SunoEk Story. In her recent book titled Okka Bokka — The Spook, Spice And Cocoa, she brings back the curiousness of childhood that is lost in today’s tech-driven world.
When did the idea for the book (Okka Bokka) germinate?
The characters and the stories were in my mind since childhood. While the characters in the book are real, the twist in the tales are fictional and it took me 6-9 months to pen it down.
Which is the best opening line in a book that you have ever read?
I know there is a reason for everything — Many lives, Many Masters by Dr Brian Weiss.
Which genre draws you the most as a reader and a writer?
Folk tales, horror and occult.
One fictional character close to your heart and why?
Mandrek of the good old Indrajaal Comics. He has the charisma of a true magician and a complete entertainer.
Who among the pantheon of writers (past/present) would you like to have coffee with?
Ruskin Bond
Which book do you keep revisiting time and again?
Amar Chitra Katha series
How can new/budding writers prevent rejection from turning into dejection?
“It takes all kinds to make the world” — if one believes in this theory, rejections would fall into its right place and not dishearten a writer. Someone will recognise the talent in you — sooner or later.
What is your antidote for the writer’s block?
Give it a break. Stay away from your pen for a while... it will sure call you back with zeal.
Ending of one popular book that you would have changed?
None so far... a popular book is popular because the way it has been written! From beginning till the end.
One tip for aspiring writers.
Be youself and write out your mind and heart.
