Author interview: Teenage writer Taanya Kapur on her book 'I'm Fine'

A few of my friends have already read the book and some parents as well. The feedback has been very positive in terms of interest in the content and relatability to what was written. Parents had an interesting point of view about how they saw the perspective of a teenager and appreciated it. 

What kind of books inspire you as a writer? Who are your favourite authors?

My favourite authors include Jandy Nelson, Rick Riordan, and Khaled Hosseini, and Enid Blyotn is my old favourite. I always think that my writing is instantly influenced by the book I have read before. Over time, there are some aspects of each of these writers' style that can really impact the reader. Whether it’s their wit or way of creating vivid images. The creativity and freedom with which they write and express every emotion differently, for example Jandy Nelson, used to describe art portraits to express characters internal emotions, is a style I have always admired. The way of using  language inspired me to use different styles of writing within my book liberally and creatively. 

Why did you want to become a writer? Who inspired you to become a writer?    What triggered you to come into writing?

Writing has always been a catharsis for me. I always believed it’s the way to make a real impact or change in the world. Every time I feel any emotion, writing about it is the only way I can freely express myself. So as soon as I started realising the multitude of problems we face as teenagers, I started to write all of it down just to let it off my chest. Before I knew it, I was writing in second person and my manuscript was almost ready. 

What are you doing to let readers know about your book?
 

I have posted about it on my social media and we had organised a book launch to spread the word around. 

Tell me something about your book. Some highlights.
 

The book consists of real situations and quotes, so the main structure for the book is in response to these. Highlights include the chapters on Envy, Failure and Academics wherein I wrote about my own experience. I wrote them in real time when I had an experience the very same day with either of these issues and  I came home upset and vented as if I were writing in my diary. These raw emotions somehow made those chapters the strongest, because first hand experience gave me a certain credibility. 

Tell me something about yourself and your background.

I’m sixteen and have lived in Mumbai all my life. I’ve always wanted to make a difference in the world which inspired me to write this in the first place. It was after of a lot of close friends started to confiding in me , that I decided to start writing. 

Do you plan to take it up as a full time profession if response is good?

 

The response has been very positive with a good balance of constructive criticism to help me on my journey. Writing will always be a big part of my life, and I do plan on continuing it when I am older, however I do have other interests I would like to pursue as well.