Former editor of Lakes District News and Houston Today, Priyanka Ketkar, is making headlines once again, this time as a first-time author with her heartwarming children’s book titled “But I Hate Reading.”
Inspired by her own little cousin’s aversion to reading, Ketkar’s book aims to encourage young readers to embrace the joy of storytelling.
In her years as the editor of Lakes District News, Ketkar navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic by addressing various relevant issues and offering a fresh perspective to her readers. From local stories of resilience to broader societal impacts, Ketkar’s editorial insights played a crucial role in keeping the community informed and engaged during these tough times.
Now, stepping into the realm of children’s literature, Ketkar brings her storytelling prowess to a new audience. “But I Hate Reading” is a delightful picture book that tackles the common struggle many children face – a dislike for reading. Ketkar draws inspiration from her own experiences, particularly her little cousin’s reluctance to pick up a book.
“This book is close to my heart, especially because of the significant role that books have played in my life. I hope this book sparks a bit of magic for kids and makes them realize that reading can be a fun adventure, not a chore,” Ketkar said.
The narrative unfolds through engaging illustrations and a relatable storyline, showcasing the transformative power of storytelling. Ketkar believes that fostering a love for reading at an early age is essential for a child’s development and imagines her book as a tool to bridge the gap between aversion and appreciation.
Ketkar, shedding light on her creative process, said, “Writing feels like second nature to me, but this time it was more than that. I was also diving into the world of illustration for ‘But, I Hate Reading’. With the assistance of a few AI-generated images and various editing tools, there were numerous nights spent refining the visuals and page layouts after my regular work hours. It was a massive learning experience.”
“But I Hate Reading” may soon find its place on the shelves of the Burns Lake Public Library. Library Director Monica Willner expressed enthusiasm about the potential addition, stating, “the library is interested in organizing an author reading with Ketkar.”
Willner said Ketkar was involved and extremely supportive of the library’s services and programs.
“We will be absolutely thrilled to have her book in our collection. I am sure that many of the community members will recognize her name,” Willner said.
Looking ahead, Ketkar is already gearing up for the release of her next book.
“This is just the beginning for me in storytelling,” notes Ketkar. “Contributing to the world of books is something I’m committed to. I believe in the impact stories can have on shaping minds and sparking imagination.”
For the latest updates on Ketkar’s work, follow her on Instagram (@authorpriyankaketkar) and check her website (https://www.priyankaketkar.com/). “But I Hate Reading” is now available on Amazon.