Happiness

Nihal Gill and Diya Hituvalli cohost an hour of Indian happiness. They interview the dynamic new author Payal Doshi for her Middle Grade read, Rea and the Blood of the Nectar, the story of 12-year-old Rea Chettri from Darjeeling, India, who goes off on a secret and thrilling quest as she portals into the magical realm of Astranthia to find her missing twin brother Rohan. Payal's first draft of her book showcased Caucasian characters, locations, and elements. When her writing teacher asked why she hadn't created Indian protagonists, she realized that South Asian characters are often portrayed in a stereotypical manner or under-represented completely. She pivoted to writing from the culture she knows and loves. The result is the first book in a captivating series for pre-teens. The interview is lively, upbeat, and full of joy. The Gift of Happiness from Cynthia Brian's book, Be the Star You Are!® 99 gifts for Living, Loving Laughing, and Learning to Make a Difference ends the hour of happiness. Help each other to be happy. Never mind if help be small. Giving a little is far better Than giving none at all.