Ashna Kedia is a third-year undergraduate student, majoring in Economics and Finance. Ashna wrote her first book Beyond a Heartbeat this year, which has released on 10th November. HerCampus sat down with the budding author to get some insights about her journey of writing a book.
1. Congratulations on your first book! What motivated you to write a book?
Thank you! I have been writing all my life. I used to write stories, poetry and music. However, I never really thought about writing a book. The fact is, I usually keep thinking about things when I am swimming and one day while swimming, this idea popped up in my mind. I thought this would make a great story and I should try it. I did not stick to the story though, I changed it later. I think this is how my motivation to write a book came up.
2. What do you enjoy more? Reading or Writing?
Can I say reading my own book? (laughs) I would say reading. When I am writing there are a lot of things to think about, like the scenes, the characters, the plot and all. But when I read, it relaxes me; I go entirely to a different world. So I would say I enjoy reading more.
3. Tell us more about your book?
My book is about a love story and the tragedies of life. The book starts from Indore, where a girl is studying in an MBA institution. She shares her experience of studying in the institution and the isolation she feels, but at the same time, she finds a family there. The book later shifts to her life in Delhi and explores the uncertainties of life and its dealing mechanisms. I have also touched upon a few social issues like feminism in the book.
4. How long did it take you to complete the book? Is your book released?
It took me two to three months to write the book. However, I did not write it altogether. I wrote the first half before and the second half a year later. The book has released on 10 November.
5. How did you manage to write the book amidst the hectic academic schedule?
It is hectic to write book amidst the academic schedule, not only because of the studies but also because of the activities here, like spending time with people in my dorm. As I told earlier, I did not write the book altogether. The first half was written after the 12th grade and the latter half was written in the first summer break of Ashoka.
6. How was the process of approaching the publishers?
The process of approaching the publishers was so much harder than I thought it would be. When I was writing, I did not really think about the publishers, I kept writing. But once I started sending it to publishers, I started doubting if it would actually work out. Eventually, I started looking out for the best publishers in India and I sent emails to all of them. Then I had to wait for their responses for almost three to four months. But now Srishti Publications is publishing the book and it was good working with them.
7. Did you make anybody read your book other than the publishers? How were their responses?
Yes. I have made a few friends of mine read the book. Although they might be biased, they said they enjoyed reading it. As the book is out now, I am excited to hear what everyone else thinks about it.
8. Are you planning to write another book anytime soon?
I would love to write another book! I do have a few ideas in my mind. However, as it a very long process, and I am short of time right now I will write it once I have enough time.
9. How do you want this book to be read by the readers?
I want the readers to read this book with an open mind and an open heart. It is a simple story, but it is very touching. I want the readers to empathize with the characters fully.
10. Is writing going to be your long-term goal? If not, what is your long-term goal?
I do not know yet what my long-term goal will be. But I think it will definitely be more than writing.
11. Would you like to give any message to budding writers?
My foremost message to budding writers would be, do not give up! Make yourself sit down one day, and start writing. Do not give up and you will have a book one day!
Kudos to Ashna, who managed to write and finish her book so diligently. We all wish her good luck and hope Beyond a Heartbeat becomes a bestseller! Here is the link to her book, buy yourself a copy before it is sold out!
Edited by Nishtha Jaiswal