How did you first come to love books?

When I was growing up, reading stories and reciting poetry was an integral part of our family gatherings.

Some of my earliest memories are of written text being transformed into spoken word amid food and music, in the presence loved ones.

What was the last book you read and how did you like it?

The last book I read was Frederick by Leo Lionni. It is a children’s book which reminds us that art is an essential human need and a fundamental human behaviour, rather than just an extra-curricular activity.

What are you reading right now and how is it going?

I’m currently reading The Bullet and the Ballot Box: The Story of Nepal’s Maoist Revolution by Aditya Adhikari, which came out eariler this year. So far, the book has helped me connect the people, places, and events that were scattered fragments in my mind. Also, the book is beautifully written.

What is your favourite genre and why?

Children’s books would be my favourite genre. However, I am now exploring graphic novels as well. It makes me happy that a five-year-old and I can read and enjoy the same book, in our own ways.

How do you select books to read?

I select books based on access and availability, people’s recommendations and, occasionally, book reviews.

Reading electronically has become very popular nowadays. Have you also adopted this trend or do you still prefer to read from a physical copy?

I prefer reading hard copies as the computer screen seems to remove the quietness necessary for reading. Perhaps, a Kindle is different. I’m yet to use these reading devices to really form an opinion.

What is good writing for you? What would you say makes a good writer?

For me, good writing comes from the need to say something and a search for clarity.

I find it hard to define a ‘good writer’ because I have enjoyed the works of many different kinds of writers.

What are your favourite reading hours?

I like my books early in the morning.

One book that has inspired you a lot and why?

I am inspired by Shaun Tan’s collection of three stories, Lost and Found. He is a rare children’s book author who is willing to grapple with the dark and difficult questions of our times. And he does so without ever sounding preachy or moralistic.