Ubhang Nembang’s ‘The Visitors Ban Pahuna’ (guests from the forest) might just be the perfect book for anyone who enjoys reading a picture book. Launched on March 19 at Kyanmpa The Social Hub, Sanepa Chowk, the book is published by Laibary Publication.

The author shared that he loves creating picture books since they are understood by children and adults alike. Nembang is also an artist, illustrated ‘The Visitors Ban Pahuna’ by himself.

Nembang started writing the book during the COVID-19 lockdown and was inspired by stories and news articles about animals. He was also influenced by how the flora and fauna around Kathmandu Valley is disappearing.

“What if these animals come and live in the city? That is the concept of the book,” said Nembang. The animals are the titular visitors and they come to the city as messengers. “In my mind, the animals are telling us that they have left the forest because we have taken over it. So, they’ve come to our place instead.”

‘The Visitors Ban Pahuna’ is written in both Nepali and English. Sudeep Sayami from the publishing team says that having two languages in the same book will save paper and the readers’ money. “English speakers can also learn Nepali language through the translation and vice versa,” said Sayami.