This book will inspire readers to do some soul searching of their own as they ask themselves the most reflective and introspective questions.

As syllables and ideas enter the reader’s mind, it will be as if a mirror has been held in front of them, helping them understand the impact their views can have. The book’s interactive activities and profound rhetoric will help its readers navigate their own identity and place in the world while stirring in their awareness about their pressing social and emotional needs. ‘What's on my mind’ is sure to give its audience some food, or rather words, for thought.

Intrigued? Let’s get to know about the author who has us so keen to know more.

Jiya Gupta is a 17-year-old artist and academic who studies in Mumbai’s Cathedral and John Connon School. Literally, her name means ‘heart’ and there can be no better way to describe how she thinks! Striving to strike a balance between her brain’s rationality and her heart’s sensitivity, this book represents all that she is passionate about. An aspiring psychologist, art activist, and Bharatnatyam dancer, she sees the world around her through a psychological and sociological lens. As a visionary and dynamic dreamer, Jiya hopes to cultivate in her readers the ability to ask ‘those important questions’.

Despite being a first time author, it is no less remarkable that the young girl with a vision has managed to pen down complex thoughts so simply and eloquently. When asked what advice she’d like to share with others who are aspiring authors themselves she says, “I don’t have much experience, but I would say write about something that is close to you, or you feel strongly without. It is then only that a passion is evident in your words and that emotion arises from each syllable. It is here your writing breaks the confines of the brain and touches the heart. The goal of all writers should be effect and affect. It should have a profound effect on the rationality of the readers and their emotional and mental states. Use the ‘power of the pen’ to give power to your voice.”

Of course, she had her share of blocks but her positive attitude helped ‘What’s on my mind’, A-Z edition become a reality. Some advice she found helpful was out of the blue and she describes it as so, “While writing, I had this habit of nervously visiting my poems and fretting about my choice of words and train of thought. The best advice I got was just to be myself and write fearlessly: unafraid of my choices, unfettered by the looming edits. Just write from my heart. Let the words flow and compliment my thoughts, not the other way around. I feel this helped me develop as a writer and poetess as I became more confident about my choices. My fear was replaced by a passion to write, explore, and learn.”

We are excited to dive into Jiya’s mind and can’t wait to see what's in store next!

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