Author Interview: Vidya Murlidhar

The Adventures of Grandpa and Ray

Vidya Murlidhar, Author

       Sharon Dev, Illustrator

Today I interviewed author Vidya Murlidhar on her new book "The Adventures of Grandpa and Ray."

Congratulations on your lovely children's book.

What inspired you to write this book?
Watching my young son and his grandfather enjoy the little moments of life is what inspired me to write this book. Often when the two of them eagerly watched a squirrel 's scurried movements, happily held out their bowls for a second serving of ice cream or broke out into raucous laughter while watching Gilligan's island, I could not help but wonder how similar they are. Both were in very different stages of their life. One was a rookie and another a veteran yet when they were together it was as if life had skipped a few stages in between.

You write children's books but what is your favorite genre to read.
Growing up I would read any book that I could lay my hands on. Of late though, I truly enjoy reading essays and short stories. When I started writing a few years ago, essays, poetry and short stories are what came easily to me. You can find my work at mommyhooddiary.wordpress.com.  Books on mind-body connection and energy medicine also intrigue me. 

What's your writing process? Is it difficult to coordinate with an illustrator, and do you both take each other's input to change the story?
My childhood friend, Sharon Dev, has illustrated the first book and is working on the next ones in the series. Of our collaboration, I can only say that the experience has been wonderful. All I had to do was hand over the poem to Sharon. She brought the words to life, a life full of sparkle. I could not have asked for a better partner. Working with a childhood friend has its advantages. You hearts beat in sync. 

Do you write full time? If, not tell us about your 'other'  job.
I would say the most important  job I do is of a mom, wife,  daughter-in-law, daughter, sister and friend (clichéd but true). I  also work part time as a medical interpreter and will soon begin to volunteer at a hospital as a reiki practitioner. Writing is a calling, it's so much more than a career. I write whenever there is a deep urge within me to write. 

What's your advice to aspiring authors? What has worked for you as far as marketing?
My advice to all aspiring authors would be to write from the heart. When you do that, it touches the reader. It may not always sell but you will be impacting another's life in a beautiful way. Heartfelt connections with my readers around the world has been the biggest gift my blog has given me. As for marketing, I am still learning the ropes with my newly published book. Maybe I will be in a better position to advise on this aspect in a few months from now.