SIDDA RAVITEJA's Blog

Unlocking the Tools Within: Lessons from Radiate Happiness

Happiness. We hear that word constantly, don't we? It's that elusive feeling we're always chasing, often thinking we'll find it in a new...

Interview With Jaishree Nenwani, The Author of Tiny Habits Massive Results

Jaishree's content revolves around Inspired Wisdom, Self-improvement, Personal growth, and ways to become happier in your life. She is passionate about journaling and loves sharing wisdom and tools that invoke deeper authenticity and Personal transformation.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Jaishree: I prefer to write in a quiet and cozy corner of my home in Delhi. It's a space filled with personal touches, providing the comfort and inspiration I need to let my creativity flow.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Jaishree: Inspiration for my writing often comes from everyday life and personal experiences. Observing people, exploring different places, and reflecting on my journey help me generate ideas for my work.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Jaishree: Writing is a source of tremendous energy for me. It's a cathartic process that allows me to express myself and share my thoughts. It’s not just about writing professionally, but I start my day by penning down the floating thoughts, gratitude journaling, and planning my day. Writing is meditative for me.

Ravi: How long, on average, does it take you to write a book?

Jaishree: I took about nine months to finish my first book, including the research, writing,

and editing phases. I might take a little longer for my next one.

Ravi: If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer

as an adult, what would you do?

Jaishree: Being more expressive. I have always been an introvert. If I had to do something

differently, I would like to be more expressive and mindful.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Jaishree: The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is special in my heart. The enchanting story and vivid imagery captured my imagination and sparked my love for

storytelling.

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Jaishree: I appreciate literary journals that showcase a variety of voices and perspectives. Some of my favorites include & Granta, The Paris Review, and The New Yorker.

Ravi: What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

Jaishree: I would be willing to sacrifice some leisure time to enhance my writing skills.

Dedication and discipline are crucial in honing the craft.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Jaishree: Yes, I do… Often, it's interesting to see how my work is being received and to stay connected with readers.

Ravi: Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

Jaishree: Yes, Of Course! I do read my book reviews. Positive feedback is rewarding and

motivates me, while constructive criticism helps me grow as a writer. It's essential to approach both with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Jaishree: I strive to maintain a consistent writing schedule, dedicating several hours daily to my work. However, flexibility is key, as creativity doesn't always adhere to a strict timetable.

Ravi: How long were you a part-time writer before you became a full-time one?

Jaishree: I transitioned to full-time writing after a few years of balancing it with other

responsibilities. It's a gradual process that requires careful planning and commitment. I’m a passionate writer, but I believe in maintaining a work-life balance so that other areas of life don’t get neglected.

Ravi: What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before

beginning a book?

Jaishree: Research is an integral part of my writing process. The amount of time spent on

research varies depending on the book's subject matter. Having a solid foundation before diving into the writing phase is crucial.

Ravi: What’s the best way to market your books?

Jaishree: Building a strong online presence through social media, connecting with readers, and collaborating with book bloggers and influencers can be effective marketing strategies.

Additionally, word-of-mouth recommendations have helped me a lot to market my book.

Ravi: How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?

Jaishree: I have two unpublished works and several ideas for future projects in various development stages

Ravi: How did publishing your first book change your writing process?

Jaishree: Publishing my first book was a transformative experience. It taught me the

importance of discipline, deadlines, and collaboration with editors. It also heightened my

awareness of the reader's perspective, influencing how I approach storytelling.

Ravi: Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?

Jaishree: while originality is essential, I believe in finding a balance. It's crucial to stay true to my voice and vision while also considering the expectations and preferences of my readers.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Jaishree: Be persistent, stay true to your unique voice, and don't be afraid to take risks.

Embrace both successes and setbacks as opportunities for growth. And most importantly, enjoy the process of writing.

Ravi: What are the most important magazines for writers to subscribe to?

Jaishree: Writers can benefit from subscribing to magazines like Writers Digest & The Writer. These publications offer writers valuable insights, tips, and resources at every stage of their careers.

Ravi: Tell me about your recent book to our Ravi Reads Blog Readers.

Jaishree: My recent book, ,Tiny Habits Massive Results, explores the power of small, consistent actions in achieving significant outcomes. It delves into the concept of forming positive habits and how these tiny habits can lead to transformative results in various aspects of life. The book combines practical insights with personal anecdotes, offering readers a guide to making lasting changes through incremental steps. I hope readers find inspiration and practical tools to cultivate positive habits for a more fulfilling life.

To Know more about ,,Jaishree's ,,Tiny Habits Massive Results, check out this ,link.

Rishvin and Jaanvi By Aromal Mitra Book Review

I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in "RISHVIN AND JAANVI: MYSTERY AT THE FORT AND OTHER STORIES" by Aromal Mithra. The delightful and heartwarming tales of Rishvin and Jaanvi navigating adventurous journeys, confronting challenges with courage and resourcefulness, impart valuable lessons on overcoming fear. Aromal Mithra's vivid storytelling skillfully painted each scene in my mind. I stumbled upon this gem on Amazon while searching for children's books, and the effortlessly flowing narrative, devoid of over-dragging, made it a truly delightful read. I highly recommend this heartwarming book—kudos to Amazon for bringing it to my attention!

The Pregnant Dog and Elephant: Motivational Story

Once upon a time, a dog and an elephant became pregnant at the same time. The dog was very excited, as she had always wanted a litter of puppies. The elephant, on the other hand, was more patient and understanding.

Three months down the line, the dog gave birth to six healthy puppies. She was overjoyed and spent all of her time caring for her young. Six months later, the dog was pregnant again, and this time she gave birth to a dozen puppies.

The elephant, meanwhile, was still pregnant. The dog began to wonder why the elephant had not given birth yet. She was curious, but she didn't want to be rude.

Finally, after eighteen months, the dog could no longer contain her curiosity. She approached the elephant and asked, "Are you sure you are pregnant? We became pregnant on the same date, and I have given birth three times already. What's going on?"

The elephant smiled and replied, "My dear friend, I am indeed pregnant. But I am not carrying a puppy, I am carrying an elephant. It takes longer for elephants to gestate, but when my baby is born, it will be something truly special."

The dog was amazed. She had never thought about the differences between different species before. She realized that the elephant was right, and that she should be patient and understanding.

A few months later, the elephant finally gave birth to a healthy baby elephant. It was a truly magnificent sight. The dog was so happy for her friend, and she learned a valuable lesson that day.

Moral of the story:

Don't compare yourself to others. Everyone is on their own unique journey. Be patient and persistent, and your dreams will come true.

The Heel : A Gripping Tale of Deception, Betrayal, and Revenge Book Review

The Heel" is a 2023 novel by the Indian author Chattanathan. It is a political thriller set in the fictional Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The novel follows the story of a young man named Arjun, who is drawn into the world of politics after his father is assassinated. Arjun must learn to navigate the complex and dangerous world of Tamil Nadu politics, while also trying to find out who killed his father.

The novel is well-written and suspenseful. Chattanathan does a good job of creating a believable and complex world, and the characters are well-developed and believable. The novel is also thought-provoking, and it raises some important questions about the nature of politics and the role of violence in society.

Plot Summary:

The novel begins with the assassination of Arjun's father, a prominent politician in Tamil Nadu. Arjun is devastated by his father's death, and he vows to find out who killed him. Arjun soon discovers that his father was involved in some very dangerous dealings, and that there are many people who have a motive for wanting him dead.

Arjun begins his investigation into his father's death, and he soon finds himself drawn into the world of Tamil Nadu politics. Arjun learns that the world of politics is a complex and dangerous one, and that there are many people who are willing to kill to get what they want.

As Arjun gets closer to the truth about his father's death, he puts himself in more and more danger. Arjun must use all of his intelligence and cunning to stay alive and to find out the truth.

"The Heel" is a well-written and suspenseful political thriller. It is a thought-provoking novel that raises some important questions about the nature of politics and the role of violence in society. The novel is also a moving story about love, family, and friendship.

Additional Thoughts:

One of the things that makes "The Heel" such a compelling novel is its realistic portrayal of the world of politics. Chattanathan has a deep understanding of Indian politics, and he uses this knowledge to create a believable and complex world for his characters to inhabit.

The novel is also notable for its well-developed characters. Arjun is a complex and relatable protagonist, and the supporting characters are also well-drawn. The relationship between Arjun and Priya is particularly well-developed, and it provides the novel with its emotional core.

Overall, "The Heel" is a well-written and thought-provoking novel. It is a must-read for fans of political thrillers and Indian literature.

The Fun of Being in a Startup Book Review

Finding the best work has grown more challenging as employment and talent have increased.

This often creates an opportunity for entrepreneurial potential to emerge.

The author has taken the initiative by encouraging new talent to launch their own business endeavour and use the challenges as a stepping stone, all while writing with thorough explanation and that too in an effective language.

The book was a comprehensive one of its sort because it was divided into parts that covered the prospect of the first phases followed by the regular running and decision-making features as well.

A fantastic book for anyone hoping to break the ice and spice things up by launching their own business and finding success.

Grab your copy here

Interview With Tabassum Faheem, The Author of Oblivion

Tabassum is a writer by her profession, and she writes poems when she is not reading. She knows how to talk to people, and that’s how it feels to be a part of the conversation with her. She’s funny and she will make anyone laugh with her Hyderabadi and it’s just a great time to talk to her.

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Tabassum: It’s a fun one, actually! Akbar and Birbal. Anything with Akbar and Birbal was my favorite, like the one with Khichdi, or the one with drawing a line... Those stories made me smile all my childhood, and I carry most of those lessons with me.

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Tabassum: Experience the stories before you write them. If you’re writing a story, feel it. Put some of you in the story and you will love it.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Tabassum: I write poems mostly on my Instagram. I have written some poems here and there but other than that, my biggest achievement is the book that I wrote

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Tabassum: Life, generally. I just love focusing on the things that almost everyone will ignore, like some little gesture by a little girl to crouch and smell the flower, it’s beautiful and it’s inspiring.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Tabassum: When I write for work? Surely! Everyone's work exhausts them. But when it does, I just read and start writing random poems.

Ravi: How long on average does it take you to write a book?

Tabassum: I wrote my first book in a week, the book I published- I wrote it in two weeks. And there is a book that I wanted to write and I wrote the first two pages, it’s been two years since and I haven’t written about it.

Ravi: If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?

Tabassum: I would take up literature as my graduation course. I would read as much as I could and I would read for a degree because I love reading and I believe the more I read, the better I become as a writer.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Tabassum: Sherlock Holmes. I have loved reading his stories since I was little. Still love him

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Tabassum: I honestly do not read a lot of them. I would rather read books by themselves but if I had to pick one- The New Yorker

Ravi: What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

Tabassum: My ADHD! I am sure I’d do so much better without it

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Tabassum: In the book that I just published- Oblivion, I had to write a scene where a mother has to pick between herself and her child. It killed me. I hated writing it but I knew I needed to.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Tabassum: I never did. Not until today

Ravi: Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few people will find?

Tabassum: Of course! I am a Taylor Swift fan. I have some easter eggs for the people who know me.

Ravi: Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

Tabassum: Honestly??

I take it with a grain of Salt. I cannot write something that everyone will love. So, I take it as constructive criticism.

Ravi: Have you read anything that made you think differently about fiction?

Tabassum: Nope. Every book I have ever read made me fall in love with fiction even more. It makes me fall in love with the idea of writing about Love.

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Tabassum: I edited so much of Tabassum which was initially in the first draft. I made it more Saba and less Tabassum

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Tabassum: I can’t tell you that, but I read at least 2 hours every day. Some books but a minimum of two hours.

Ravi: How long were you a part-time writer before you became a full-time one?

Tabassum: I was a closeted writer. I used to write full-fledged novels since I was 16 and keep them but never let anyone know about it until Oblivion.

Ravi: What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

Tabassum: I write fiction so honestly, I wrote it all from the figments of my imagination. Less research and more dreaming went into it.

Ravi: What’s the best way to market your books?

Tabassum: I’d say Instagram is the best way right now. With things like Bookstagram and things, it is an amazing place to market it.

Ravi: How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?

Tabassum: 3 right now!

Ravi: How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

Tabassum: I’m thinking more on the terms of “Will it work? Does this make sense?” Instead of “I just hope I get to publish it” now that I know that I can publish it, I’m trying to be refined in my work.

Ravi: What other authors are you friends with, and how do they help you become a better writer?

Tabassum: The only author friends I know are You and Raj, you guys are not from my genre so no.

Ravi: Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?

Tabassum: The book is absolutely original. Maybe that’s why it didn’t sell but the book is absolutely original.

Ravi: What are the most important magazines for writers to subscribe to?

Tabassum: I honestly cannot tell you! Read anything you can get your hands on, especially if you’re into fiction. Read as much as you can.

Ravi: Tell me about your recent book to our Ravi Reads Blog Readers.

Tabassum: My book Oblivion is about a girl finding love and finding the missing pieces of her childhood. It’s heartbreaking but it also can make you smile. So, the book is also close to my heart because it talks about a girl from Hyderabad, just like me. Growing up, I didn’t read stories about girls like me from my city, so I wrote one.

To Know more about Tabassum's Oblivion check out this link.

Thanks to Tabassum for agreeing to this interview! If you know of an author who’d like to be featured in an interview (or you are an author who would like to be featured), feel free to email me at the address on my contact page.

Startup Chanakya Book Review

By Umesh Santoshkumar Yashoda Rathod, "Startup Chanakya: Entrepreneurship is a Supreme Religion" A helpful and inspiring book for anyone looking to launch their own enterprises is Yashoda Rathod. It draws its ideas from the great Indian philosopher Chanakya and applies his insight to present-day business.

The authors provide clear explanations of everything. The way that "Startup Chanakya" combines traditional Indian concepts with contemporary business practises is what makes it so fascinating. It's an original way of thinking that motivates us to remain contemporary while still learning from the past.

This book's ability to blend both fresh and ancient ideas is one of its best features. It demonstrates how Chanakya's lessons are still relevant in the modern corporate environment. The book provides a comprehensive guide to dealing with the difficulties of beginning a business by fusing these timeless ideals with useful guidance.

Book Review: Twisted Tales and Turns

Twisted Tales and Turns is a collection of 20 short stories, each with its unique twist and turn. The author, Smita Das Jain, has a distinct writing style that is both captivating and thought-provoking. Her stories are character-driven, and she has a knack for creating complex characters that are both relatable and intriguing. Jain's style of writing is both descriptive and introspective, which allows readers to immerse themselves in the world of the story fully. The themes and motifs present in the book are also noteworthy. Each story explores different aspects of the human experience. Jain's stories are not only entertaining but also have a profound impact on readers, leaving them with much to ponder long after they have finished reading.

Twisted Tales and Turns is an excellent collection of short stories that showcases the author's talent for storytelling. The book has many strengths, including Jain's writing style, her ability to create complex characters, and the themes and motifs present in the stories. However, the book is not without its weaknesses. Some of the stories feel rushed or underdeveloped, and the endings of some of the stories are a bit predictable. Nevertheless, the book is a significant contribution to the genre of short stories, and it is sure to leave readers with much to ponder. Overall, Twisted Tales and Turns is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking stories that explore the complexities of the human experience.

Workplace Culture Books Recommendations

In today's dynamic and interconnected world, workplace culture has emerged as a pivotal factor in determining an organization's success and sustainability. A vibrant workplace culture not only attracts top talent but also nurtures employee engagement, creativity, and overall well-being. It's the invisible thread that weaves together the values, behaviors, and shared experiences of a company's members, ultimately shaping its identity and impact.

This curated list of books on workplace culture delves deep into the intricacies of cultivating, managing, and transforming the cultural fabric within organizations. From understanding the psychology behind effective teams to harnessing the power of vulnerability in leadership, these books provide valuable insights and actionable strategies for enhancing workplace culture.

Whether you're a leader looking to foster a more inclusive and innovative environment or an individual seeking to thrive within your organization, this collection of books offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Each book explores different facets of workplace culture, ranging from leadership principles and communication strategies to motivation and team dynamics.

We invite you to explore these thought-provoking titles, authored by experts in the fields of leadership, psychology, and organizational development. They offer a roadmap to create workplaces where employees are not just productive but also fulfilled, where diversity and inclusion are celebrated, and where the culture is a driving force behind lasting success.

As you delve into these pages, may you find the tools and insights necessary to shape workplace cultures that inspire, empower, and lead organizations toward a brighter future.