In conversation with Shikha
Kumar, who's latest book 'Logically Stupid that's Love' is winning hearts and
applauds all over.
Questionnaire with Shikha
Kumar
Can you tell us a little about yourself? Your profession and
your hobbies
Professionally I'm
an IT Manager, who's life is all about projects and timelines, My books are a
mixed blend of entertainment and emotions. I am also a relationship expert and
regular columnist with various websites. I love to travel and is movie-buff at
heart.Being an author is my creative side. When I first wrote, it wasn't the
plan of life, but now it's plan for life. People may have their own ways of
meditating and seeking peace, for me, it's writing at least few words a day if
not a page.
1. How did you first get involved in with writing, are you an
imaginative person?
As I always say,
I'm an accidental author. So with no background in publishing, the first book
just happened out of my love for good stories. Yes, I'm very imaginative,
romantic and witty, so are my books.
32. What do you find most challenging about your writing?
My books have made
their mark for entertaining conversations amongst lead protagonist. I too agree
that's my USP, and that's what drives the story and generates interest. So for
me, that is where maximum efforts lie. To make the exchange of words as crisper
and engaging as possible, so that book reaches readers hearts.
43. What do you do when you are not writing?
I'm constantly
writing for many websites, and then I have a full-time job too. Then there's
family around which my world revolves. So, long story short, I'm never sitting
idle. In fact, my daily routine is pretty insane, but I don't think I was
created for sanity anyway, so it's okay :)
4. Where do you see yourself in the next 6 months, and 5 years
down the road?
Reaching more
bookshelves, winning more hearts. Being a scriptwriter maybe. I'm already an
Editor-in-Chief. So enjoying the stride of life and letting it take me by
astonishment.
6 5. How do you keep coming up with material / content for your
story?
My stories are
always 'What-If' version of what I see around. I look through a normal
situation with my creative rather mischievous lenses, and that is how I create
my plots.
As far as my
characters go, they are and never will be perfect. My stories will always be
real and character believable, so being flawed is natural.
76. Any specific tips you have for new writers who want to make
it big in the world of published books?
Don't succumb to
marketing trend or forced intimate content. Just focus on a good story and of
course, a sound marketing plan. Respect all reviews equally and never get
demotivated with either rejection or negative feedback. Not all audience is
alike, so it's alright to have varied reviews.
87. What’s the best thing a writer can give to his readers?
9. Value
for their time more than money. When you watch a movie, you spend quality time
with loved ones at least, even if a film turns out to be a disaster. But a book
is an individual's Me-time, so it's even more important to embrace a good book.
So a book in the genre they cherish at an affordable price is the best gift to
a reader from the author.
8. A lot of people are interested in writing for the money
earning potential. What are some tips for people interesting in making money
from writing? What are some realistic expectations in regards to what can be
made?
Well, to be
honest, it's more of investment in initial years. Very few have struck gold in
their maiden book, most sail through hardship to reach a decent stage. So don't
expect anything stupendous to begin with. If you happen to make it big in the
first attempt, consider that as a fortunate surprise and not minimal
expectation benchmark.
19. What motivates you most in life?
I'm in an
auto-pilot mode for motivation. My life, particularly my hands are so full
always that I don't have to look beyond my little blue planet to push myself
up. I don't intend to sound self-pompous but with time I've found ways to
filter our negativity and cherrypick positivity in all situations.
110. The majority of the readers tend to take sides due religion
and such other considerations.
Well, I believe
genre should be only criteria for readers to take sides. Not even favorite
authors. A genuine reader should give every good book it's due and unbiased
consideration. So religion shouldn't even be in remote proximity while picking
a book.
111. What is the story behind the name of your book?
Since its
inception, I knew I'm writing about a tale of heart v/s brain. It's not
war-of-sexes and not even collision of two different worlds; it's a tussle
between two most crucial elements of our existence that resides within us. So,
Kartik was Logic and Sahana was Love. So after some deliberation, 'Logically
Stupid that's Love' was arrived as an apt title for this today's generation
love-story that never values what comes easy to them.
1 12. What are your views on increasing plagiarism?
It's very
disheartening to know indeed. If you don't have a story to tell to the world
then better not write rather than disgracing the profession. So, please don't
make it money-making business, it's primarily a creative task. Being inspired
is okay but not shamelessly repeating someone's original content.
.jpg "BOOK REVIEW - “IT HAPPENS FOR A REASON” BY PREETI SHENOY")
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