Author Interview : Siri Katragadda (the author from Columbus!)

Please welcome Author Siri Katragadda on my blog! 

Author of When Amma was a Little Girl - Ganesha's Birthday in Columbus -  https://www.amazon.in/gp/aw/d/B08D3KLQSB 

Paperback - https://store.pothi.com/book/siri-katragadda-when-amma-was-little-girl-ganeshas-birthday-columbus

and When I was a Baby: At Zoo -https://www.amazon.in/gp/aw/d/B084F7N869 

• Introduce yourself.

I am Siri Katragadda who is an Electronics Engineer by profession and a novice writer by passion.  I grew up in Andhra Pradesh, India but now in Columbus a small urban town in USA where I work.

• Tell us about your books

I penned two children’s books, “When I was a Baby – At Zoo” & “When Amma was A Little girl – Ganesha’s Birthday in Columbus”. 

My first book is about a 5-year old narrating his experiences when he was a baby and how he helps people based on his baby experiences. He has three buddies which are emergency vehicles who help him during those expeditions. 

My second book is about two little boys who live in the city of Columbus, which is far away from their Mom’s ancestral home in India. They learn about this fun celebration from Mom and take part in this joyful event.

    

• What inspired you to write? 

Sharing Amma’s childhood in the form of a story is the favorite thing for my kid to do before his bed time. It usually starts with Amma’s story followed by my little ones. I have blogged for couple of years but writing a book is something inspired by this bed time routine. 

• Your favorite authors?

It keeps on changing and depends on the book or series I am reading! Now it is Amulya Malladi.

• Favorite life quote? 

A reader lives thousand lives before he dies. (Wow!) 

• Favorite destination 

I am an avid traveler and has a bucket list of destinations to visit. However, whenever I have an upcoming trip to Vijayawada (city which I grew up), I get excited for that forthcoming trip. No other destination fascinates me like this one because hometown is a treasure.  

• Hobbies

Travelling, reading, gardening and of course being master chef to my family of four.

• Favorite food

Nothing in particular but I like to experiment with food and try fusion recipes. 

• Do you celebrate as many Indian festivals as possible in Columbus? Which are they?

Always and each one of them! This is my way to connect back home.

• What are you planning to write next?

Sankranthi, which is amma’s next favorite festival. 

• How was response from family and friends on your book?

I come from a family of Engineers but none of them are writers. They got thrilled to hear my new adventure. I heard some good reviews and feedback which I tried to incorporate for the later releases.

• Who encouraged and supported you throughout writing? 

Akshar, my 5-year old who is also one of the characters in my second book. He is my first reader and critiques without any filter.

• Describe your writing desk

Ohh, it’s little wierd. Since I work full-time, I hardly get any time to write during mornings. I write at the end of the day after my kid’s sleep and it will be usually sitting on the couch or next to my kid’s bed.

• Favorite spot/place to write? 

I am a busy working mom with two active kids, so I would be happy if I get a quiet spot where I can focus. Also a walk in the trail or woods motivates my brain.

• Challenges you faced while writing or publishing?

Being a novice author, I did not get my first edited which was a major mistake. I feel book editing takes your book a long way. 

I, Hemdiva,  thank you for your precious time! It was a pleasure having you on my blog.  All the best and keep writing!