Meet our speakers: Chitra Soundar
Find out more about author Chitra Soundar, who will be at our BookTrust Represents training events in Bradford and London.
Author Chitra Soundar will be taking part in our BookTrust Represents training events in both Bradford and London, hosting an 'Introduction to School Visits' session.
Getting to know Chitra
Who was your favourite author and/or illustrator when you were growing up and why?
I grew up in India with very few illustrated books. But I read a lot of comics that were and still are published by Amar Chitra Katha.
Who are your favourite children authors and/or illustrators now and why?
There are so many name to name. Some make me laugh and others make me think. I don't think I can name a few.
What advice would you give to a new author and/or illustrator that you wish you had been given?
That there is a place for all types of stories. For a long time, I failed because I told stories I had seen published – western characters in western adventures. When I realised I can tell stories from my own culture, I made progress.
What has been your career high so far as an author/illustrator?
When children in schools tell me they love my books. Those moments are the best.
What are you currently reading?
I just finished reading Heartbeat by Sharon Creech which moved me.
Who or what inspires your work?
My imagination combined with the voracious story appetite of my nephews who want new stories every time we hang out.
Why are you supporting BookTrust Represents?
Because I want to be pay it forward. At every step, someone helped me with a kind word or advice or passed on a contact. I learnt by watching others, learning from my peers and those who were in front of me and I want to be able to offer that support to writers who are under-represented in the industry.
More about Chitra
Chitra Soundar is an Indian-born British author and storyteller based in London, England. She has written over 30 books for children, published across Asia, Europe and North America. Chitra visits schools, libraries and is invited to British and International festivals around the world to talk to children and grown-ups about the joys of reading and her own stories. She also mentors picture book writers and has taught the Writing for Children course at City University London. Find out more at www.chitrasoundar.com.
Discover Chitra's books
This simple story will comfort little ones and its soothing text will lull them to sleep. Accompanied with incredibly stunning and intricate illustrations, this picture book would make a great addition to the bedtime routine.
