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20 Books Every Marketer Should Read in 2023

Stay ahead of the marketing game with our must-read collection of 20 books for marketers in 2023. Explore the latest trends, strategies, and insights from industry experts, empowering you to elevate your marketing skills and drive impactful results. I Have selected some of my favorite new and old marketing books, compiling them into the list below.

These indispensable texts from today’s most innovative and insightful marketers are the must-have, must-read books of 2023.

Interview With Anita Rajani, The Author of Shivshakti

,Anita Rajani is a Reiki and Crystal Grandmaster, a Tarot reader, a Hypnotherapist, an Inner Child Integration Therapist and a teacher of esoteric subjects and an author. She is into writing for 8 years. She has culminated all her years of learning and experience into writing. She has published her own book Shivshakti The Continuous Continuum.

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Anita: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho The theme in The Alchemist is to pursue your dreams by following what your heart desires. During the young boy's journey, he learns to listen to the heart and to follow the language of omens. With each passing obstacle and hurdle that the young boy encounters, there is a lesson to learn. It’s a very interesting and easy read. It touched my heart.

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Anita: I would always say Belief in yourself and never give up on your dreams

Ravi: Where do you write?

Anita: I used to write on a book pad earlier but now I write it on the notes on my phone as it’s easier to transfer it on the laptop and then edit it. I usually write in the wee hours of the morning say 4 AM as I find that time very peaceful and no sounds to disturb you. Writing usually flows freely and uninterrupted at that time.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Anita: It channeled and intuited by me. This book was very special. I am working on two other books but this book just got downloaded and got completed before the other two books. It was just meant to be.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Anita: As I have stated that the book is channeled. It used to always leave me completely energized.

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

Anita: This particular book Shivshakti The Continuous Continuum took me 4 months in all to write, edit and design

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?

Anita: I don’t think I would change anything as it’s made me who I am today. I understand how life shaped me as I am today so I can write this beautiful book. I am in complete gratitude.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Anita: All the fairy tale books I read especially Snow White and the seven dwarfs. The seven dwarfs are the seven chakras and the Snow-white represents the consciousness- Shakti and the Queen represent the dark forces. Once you are in access to your kundalini you can fight any darkness and merge with the prince who represents the Shiva in the crown chakra. Everything in the universe comes down to the Divine masculine and feminine. It’s a beautiful revelation.

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Anita: The Anthology of Indian poems as I love reading and writing poetry. I have written more than 300 poetries and plan to publish my own anthology of poems.

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

Anita: I would want to keep writing as my first priority if possible as I have so much to share. So in short would give up prioritizing other things and focus more on writing so I complete the books on time.

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Anita: The entire book just flowed so I don’t think I had any writer's block while writing the book.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Anita: yes I do. I like to see my progress from time to time. It makes me feel happy.

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

Anita: No. I have written the book just as it was channeled. There are no hidden meanings in there. But the chapters look small and simple but are profound in their meanings.

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

Anita: I love to read book reviews lucky for me I haven't got any bad reviews but I would take it as a healthy critic and try and bring that change in my style of writing. And if the criticism is coming from a very negative space I would just ignore it.

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

Anita: yes many books have changed my entire life. Books surely do make an impact on us. The book Many lives many masters by Brian Weiss just stumped me and created a turning point in my life.

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Anita: I edited nothing except spelling mistakes.

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Anita: about an hour each day. Nevermore than that.

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

Anita: I wrote for 8 years before I could finally write a book I began with morning readings in 2013 which are words of wisdom every morning. They are very popular all over the world. Then I wrote about 300 poems in all. It’s a collection ranging on different topics. I do plan to publish an anthology by next year. After that, I wrote small articles for blogs and club magazines. Slowly as the writing got better I guess it was time to write the book.

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

Anita: I don’t research much as most of my work is intuited. In this particular book, I haven't researched anything and I haven't felt the need to either.

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

Anita: I am still figuring that out. I am trying Instagram, Facebook and amazon for now!

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

Anita: One book is being edited. It’s a collection of my morning readings. It will be in 2 volumes and a small pocket-size book. It’s called Inner Voice- A collection of transformational messages. 2 books are incomplete yet to be finished. One is a channeled book by Sai Baba called The Awakened Sai within you. Am still in completion of the chapters.

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

Anita: I understood many mistakes I was making when I was writing. I have improvised on my style of writing and have a wider perception as now I get feedback from readers and can see the mistakes I made.

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

Anita: I don’t have any author friends but I have a mentors Suma Varghese whose workshops I have started to take to understand better. I also have Ashwin Sanghi, he guides me. I look up to both of them as my mentors.

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

Anita: I am original I don’t focus on what readers want. As my books are more about wisdom that needs to reach the people that can heal and transform them when they read them.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Anita: Always trust your inner voice and be confident of what you write. One more important piece of advice Never give up on your dreams come what may.

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

Anita: ShivShakti - The Continuous Continuum is a book for all to read. The main theme of the book is about how the Divine principles masculine and feminine exists in all things that exist in the universe. It also explains how these two thrive and expand on a continuous basis to keep on evolving with the different experiences. The main concept of Shivshakti is to experience life through the breathe and evolve and expand its consciousness. It's a Divine at play within each one of us and everything that exists. The conversations between Shiva and Shakti are very enthralling and one can experience a meditative space while reading this book. It's a must-read for all!

To Know more about Anita's ,ShivShakti check out this ,link.

Thanks to Anita Rajani 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.

Ravi Reads 9: Faith and the Beloved by Kochery C Shibu

This is the second book by Kochery C Shibu after the critically acclaimed literary fiction Men and Dreams in the Dhauladhar. Faith and the Beloved is a crime thriller mystery novel with

a fair share of literary fiction in parts. The novel opens with a murder scene and the protagonist is on the run. The rest of the novel is about the game of wits between the young and savvy Alice, the protagonist, and her detractors. This is a crime thriller which has the police and the two criminal gangs all trying to chase and catch Alice who is on the run. Prem Prakash is a cop who sees the unseen and sees things differently. He is able to piece together a complex murder mystery based on available evidence and equally what is missing from the crime scene. The ability of Alice to think on her feet and always get the better of the detractors is convincingly portrayed. As also the equally sharp Prem who tracks her down. The plot and the development of the events around the murder mystery is mind-boggling at times. I liked the new and exciting characters in the book, who came live in front of you as you read the novel. The Bangalore-based author has carved a place for himself in the crime thriller genre and his writing is like a breath of fresh air. It was a nice change of pace to read through this riveting thriller.

This book is definitely for the faint-hearted, and I will recommend all fiction thriller readers to go for this book.

Advisory

The crime thriller mystery novel is for mature adult readers. It contains graphic descriptions which may not suit all. Reader discretion is advised.

https://tinyurl.com/2zryeut9

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=68UkfvoVp0A

Interesting article on Cold Calling

Do you feel that cold calling is like interrupting someone's busy day to sell something?

Have you ever felt that you are a scripted robot?

Are you struggling to make a first cold call?

Are you afraid of failing?

If you have answered yes to any of the questions above, this article will change your life.

Interview With Akhil Manuel, The Author of Articleship Diaries

Akhil Manuel juggles a full-time career in auditing with a passion for travel, writing fiction, and photography. As a Chartered Accountant, he has worked extensively amongst the best, including E&Y, Deloitte, and Goldman Sachs. Akhil always moves forward to provide value within the Chartered Accountant community and has taken his talent to Muscat, where he currently works in Al Aram Financial Services and management consultancy as a Principal Business Analyst. He is a NET awardee in Commerce and management studies and plans to pursue his Ph.D. in the said field.

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Akhil Manuel: ‘The last leaf’ and ‘The gift of the Magi’ by O henry. Also a big fan of Ruskin Bond – the cherry tree and boy who broke the bank

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Akhil: Write what you love and write daily

Ravi: Where do you write?

Akhil: I usually write it down in my notebook. And after a week I transfer everything to my laptop. So in the initial stage itself, I would be able to go twice into the minds of the character and in-depth story analysis.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Akhil: After selecting a theme, I spend time researching by reading books and on the internet. During weekends I meet people and discuss things about my story to get clarity

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Akhil: It exhausts me a lot. Writing is difficult. It drains all your energy, but once the final product is made, the kind of happiness you feel is ineffable

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

Akhil: Around 8- 10 months

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?

Akhil: I started writing my first book after turning 25. Initial days I was not confident in my writing style. The thought of who will read my book always troubled me, preventing me from writing during the initial times. I should have started writing much earlier, and this thought haunts me every time.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Akhil: The jungle book

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Akhil: Readers Digest

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

Akhil: Social media and Netflix

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Akhil: The climax scene. I spend like three weeks just to finalize it and even then some of my friends told it was not that great.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Akhil: Yes, obviously

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

Akhil: No

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

Akhil: Yes, who doesn’t? Reviews give us an idea about your book from a third-party perspective. Reviews act as an eyeopener. You will realize the pulse of the readers, and you can learn from them for your next book.

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

Akhil: I am a big fan of Sydney Sheldon and Dan Brown. I have never read anything differently about fiction

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Akhil: Initially, I got my book edited by my best friend Boney and by my cousin Allen. After that, I entered into a contract with my publisher for proofreading and editing. Before publishing, you must ensure editing is done in a proper manner. It matters a lot

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Akhil: It depends. There are days when I wrote more than 6 hours a day, and there are weeks where I didn't even touch my pen.

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

Akhil: Almost 4- 5 years

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

Akhil: Once the theme is finalized, I spent almost a month for research

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

Akhil: Try to get your book published through traditional publishers. Half of the marketing would be done by them only. I used Facebook ad and Instagram advertisements options twice a month and gave my book to famous book reviews for their review. And every week I posted pictures and articles about my book on social media and asked others to follow the same.

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

Akhil: Currently working on the second book: Memoir to college days

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

Akhil: I became more confident after seeing my first book gets published. The happiness I felt was incredible. It motivated me to seriously consider writing as my career.

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

Akhil: Some of my author friends showed me how to market my book. They spend time analyzing various social media and told me when and where to post my ads. Some friends edited a few portions of my novel even without asking. When I showed my manuscript to a friend, he pointed out that most of the character's names start with and female characters are very few. You will get a lot of ideas and suggestions from your fellow writers, which makes you think more and update accordingly.

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

Akhil: Yes, I love to portray real life in front of me without a filter and get into the minds of characters around me. I always build dialogues with my audience and frame events on the basis of them. So people can easily relate it to their life.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Akhil: Whatever comes to your mind, WRITE

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

Akhil: Readers digest, The Bombay review, etc.

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

Akhil: The book is on the life of a Chartered Accountant (CA) student. That doesn't mean this book can be enjoyable only for CA people. No, it has a universal theme; the story starts when the protagonist decides to pursue CA and ends when he gets qualified as a CA. The protagonist describes his pains and pleasures while pursuing the CA course - a journey

of more than three years

So, in this three-year-long journey, Joe – the main character finds himself tangled with romance, corporate trauma, true friendship, and drama while traveling around the world. In a breathless race, he realizes what it means to become an impactful chartered accountant and, above all, the true meaning of finding one's purpose.

Ravi: What inspired you to write this novel?

Akhil: I have noticed that countless movies and books have been written about

engineering and medical college lives. It seems like they are the only category of people who enjoy their youthful days CA students experience a lot of dramatic events in his life. I think his life is a rollercoaster of emotions. It is way more eventful than a regular college. It starts from the day when you join an office, work pressure attached with audits, the stress of filing an income tax return on the due date, instances where client dealings can go wrong, exam tension, etc. When I randomly checked online to find out such similar experiences, I found out that no one has ever written anything based on CA life. The quantum of enjoyment that you encounter in CA life is not mentioned anywhere. Another thing is that most of the students take this course without knowing what to expect from it. So, through this book, I just

want to convey to them what really happens in a CA's life and realize that if articleship is appropriately used, you can create your own happy world.

To Know more about Akhil's ,Articleship Dairies check out this ,link.

Thanks to Akhil 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.

Interview with Eshita Singh, The Author of Happens Like a Dream

Ishita is a writer based in Jaipur, India. She is from Varanasi. She works as a Manager in the State Bank of India. She lives in a nuclear family with her spouse and eight-year-old son. Between her job and family, she paves the way towards pursuing her passion and fulfilling her childhood dream to become an author. Her grandfather was a renowned author from Varanasi, Late Dr. Shiv Prasad Singh. She has done MBA in Finance and started her career as a Probationary Officer in the State Bank of India. She loves to learn many things and thrives on becoming a better version of herself. She has learned tarot card reading, Reiki Healing, and Angel Healing.

She is interested in Numerology, Astrology, and Graphology. She is a nature and animal lover. She loves traveling, reading, sketching, painting, and spending time with family and pets.

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Ishita: My favorite story is The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond.

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Ishita: Always write straight from your heart. Develop your brand and style. This cannot be taught by anyone. There are three main ingredients for a successful Authors journey, Patience, Perseverance and Persistency.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Ishita: I prefer to write using a pen and my notebook. I have tried typing directly into my laptop or tried dictating but it doesn’t help me to uncover my true emotions. The true emotions are always unfolded on paper by my pen.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Ishita: I get my ideas from the nature and lives of people around me.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Ishita: Writing is my passion so it always energizes me. I always believe that if you follow your passion, the cumulative earning in terms of monetary benefits and peace of mind shall be priceless.

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

Ishita: It took two months to write my first book.

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?

Ishita: Read more and more books

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Ishita: The legend of Monkey King, Alice in Wonderland.

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Ishita: The last part of the story was the hardest part to write.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Ishita: No

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

Ishita: No

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

Ishita: Yes I read my book reviews. Reviews are the chances to improve ourselves.

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

Ishita: After reading Harry Potter I felt that imagination has no boundaries.

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Ishita: Nothing

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Ishita: It depends on the flow of creativity. Sometimes I am not able to pen down my thoughts and emotions and sometimes I can write for hours and hours.

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

Ishita: I am still a part-time writer.

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

Ishita: I spend a few hours researching before beginning a book. However, after starting the book I don’t research.

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

Ishita: Establishing a Brand name and reaching maximum people is the best way to market your books.

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

Ishita: I am writing a book for children. Apart from that, I am also planning to write a book of short stories. There will be around 25 short stories based on real-life incidences.

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

Ishita: I have learned a lot while writing my first book. From drafting the manuscript to editing and formatting, cover design, etc., is done by me. To learn something one has to come out of his comfort zone. Learning is an ongoing process. Now I am more details oriented.

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

Ishita: I appreciate every person who has helped me in some or another way. Sweta Samota has helped me as a guide. Kamlesh Nivedita, author of the best-seller "Made for each other" has also helped me in every possible way. The feedback and support provided play a crucial part in an author's journey.

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

Ishita: I prefer to be original. Delivering readers what they want is an important aspect of writing along with maintaining originality.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Ishita:

Read as much as possible. If you want to get NEW ideas read OLD books. Keep polishing your writing skills by practicing daily. Be original and create your brand. Polish your strengths and let them shine. Write from the heart and choose whatever appeals to you the most. Take care of your health and spend time with nature. Meditate. It helps in generating new ideas. Remember Patience, Perseverance and Persistency. Always strive for becoming a version of yourself. Learn from each and every thing and grab the opportunities on time. Don’t hesitate to experiment.

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

Ishita:

About Book: Isha is a girl with common dreams and aspirations like most of us. She falls in love with her knight in the shining amour. When Kabeer breaks up with her she is devastated. She suffers from acute depression, until one day when she learns that self-love is the truest form of love that can uplift and enable us to attain heights of success in every field.

Self-Love: A journey of true compassion is all about the importance of self-love to live a life of respect and integrity. This book tells us how self-love heals heartache and uplifts emotionally and spiritually. Many of us get into depression when our love life fails to give them the happiness they deserve. This book is all about celebrating the spirit of life following the journey of self-love which is the first step towards a spiritual journey.

To the Readers: Explore the endless possibilities and keep polishing your strengths. Self-love is the foundation of our strength. Self-love is the first step towards a spiritual journey. It is the basic necessity that allows us to live life in the most dignified way and discover our true potential and soul purpose. Self-love is a prerequisite for leading a happy life and happy relationships. Self-love is the basic foundation to attract unconditional love in our life. We deserve to be loved. Self-love is a beautiful relationship with ourselves.

"Self-love: A journey of true compassion" is a small effort to entertain you and bring out the message of self-love.

Always remember. YOU are a Hero: A true champion, in your journey of life. The journey of YOUR beautiful life, which YOU have lived, and no one else. You have more potential than you can imagine.

To Know more about Ishita's Happens Like a Dream check out this link.

Thanks to Ishita 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.

Interview with Ashutosh Rawal, The Author of Why I'm Crazy about Japan

Ashutosh Rawal is a world traveler, photographer, teacher and, self-admittedly, a student forever. Leading an Ahmedabad- based Travel Company, his professional work in the field of Tourism, Destination Marketing and Corporate Events has taken him across various lands beside the length and breadth of India. Japan is ‘first love’, but its lasting impression is thanks to a long list, details of which are unfolded in this book.

Over half a dozen trips to the land since 1991 when he represented student organization AIESEC, Ashutosh enjoys teaching Tourism Studies and Japanese Learning Program at Ahmedabad Management Association besides writing on unique travel experiences. Adventure is oxygen and camera the companion where sports like para-gliding, sky-diving, bungee jumping, river rafting, zip trekking, canyoning, dune bashing, kite surfing and scuba diving take turns to thrill. As for the inner journey, working with Red Cross Society, Art of Living Foundation and NGOs, there’s never been a dull moment.

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Ashutosh Rawal: The first story in the book and the story about a visit to Lake Biwa are my favorite stories in the book.

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Ashutosh: Be consistent and be disciplined in writing. You must write at a designated time every day even if you do not get new ideas. Keep writing and then you can always go back and edit it.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Ashutosh: Anywhere and everywhere. However, if it is near to nature, it is always fun.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Ashutosh: I get the best ideas in the bathroom…..!!!! And when I am going to sleep at night.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Ashutosh: It makes me feel wonderful and satisfied.

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

Ashutosh: There is no fixed frame but it should take 6-8 months if it is under 200 pages of the book.

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?

Ashutosh: Nothing………..you should read as much as you can and I already did that while I was growing up. I read everything and all different genres

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Ashutosh: Tin Tin Comics

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Ashutosh: I don’t read Journals

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

Ashutosh: Nothing…..you do not need to sacrifice anything to be a writer

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Ashutosh: I am a non-fiction writer and so I do not have to imagine anything. However, it is difficult to make it witty, hilarious and interesting. You need to have a good sense of humor and also a good sense of observation to dig out the humor in day-to-day activities.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Ashutosh: Only after I published the book…never before, it occurred to me…!!!!!

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

Ashutosh: In fact, I wrote about all the embarrassing moments and secrets in my book. I think that it is the perfect way to share and connect with your readers

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

Ashutosh: Yes, it’s important for me to read the reviews of my book. It helps me understand my readers and that I do not make the same mistakes in the second book. Negative reviews would be challenging but the best way to learn. However, I am lucky to not get any strong negative reviews.

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

Ashutosh: Nothing, that immediately comes to my mind

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Ashutosh: Nothing apart from a Couple of proofreading mistakes.

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Ashutosh: No fixed time for me. Sometimes, I write for a couple of hours and sometimes for few minutes when new ideas come to my mind. However, I need to change that and become more disciplined.

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

Ashutosh: I am still a part-time writer….!!!

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

Ashutosh: Not much research in the case of my book. I usually write about my own travel experiences and the challenge is to make it funny and witty but deliver the important message or life lesson at the same time. However, I am careful that it should not sound like me preaching something.

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

Ashutosh: The most important thing is to write a great book first and then market yourself on Social Media as well as through speaking assignments.

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

Ashutosh: One at a time

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

Ashutosh: I self-published my first book and it does not change my process of writing but it gives me an idea about the topics that people would like to read.

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

Ashutosh: Anurita Rathore is an Author and a friend. She actively guides me on the editing part and publishing process.

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

Ashutosh: Being original is always better. Readers will eventually like your genuine and unique content

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Ashutosh: Don’t think much…………start writing and finish the book that you have been always thinking about but never wrote or never finished.

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

Ashutosh: I would suggest reading the books in the same genre as you are planning to write. That would help much more than anything else.

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

Ashutosh: This book talks about my heartwarming & unique experiences in Japan, which changed my vision & life forever. Initially, as an Indian student in Japan and later as a tourist and as an entrepreneur, I have had some amazing experiences. Each and every experience has been a mind opener and life lesson for me. It has been crucial in shaping my vision, my outlook and my success in life. This book is my tribute to Japan and my way of offering my deep sense of respect and gratitude to my favorite country in the whole world. In this book, I would like to share these experiences with you. The cultural differences have also created humor and I am sure it will make you laugh when you read certain hilarious experiences.

Second World War and the nuclear bomb attack in August 1945 completely devastated Japan. Thousands of people died and millions were affected by the radiation. However, in a short span of 25 years, this small island nation began ruling the world in terms of technology, innovation and best practices. Japan started being identified as a symbol of Trust, Creativity and high-quality products. Japanese Management System is considered to be the most efficient, reliable and trustworthy. Just the symbol “Made in Japan" was enough to blindly trust the product or services offered by them. Japan started ruling the electronics, car manufacturing, cutting edge technology and financial markets across the globe.

The dedication, discipline and integrity of a Japanese person or a company is rated highest in the world. This transformation happened due to hard work, a sincere approach and a mind-boggling level of discipline followed by the Japanese people. It made them one of the most respected and sought-after countries in the world. They virtually ruled the car manufacturing & electronics market for 3 decades with consistent quality and innovative products. This book offers an insight into these transformations and the thinking processes of an average Japanese person.

To Know more about Ashutosh's WHY I'M CRAZY ABOUT JAPAN check out this link.

Thanks to Ashutosh 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.

Interview With Kirti Changlani, The Author of The Search For Belonging

Ravi: Tell me about yourself?

Kirti Changlani: I'm an Author of Two books. Titled ",A Life, Less Ordinary" And ",The Search For Belonging". I write Youth-oriented stories that revolve around the theme of Self-discovery; Human relationships, friendships, and Love. I'm also a Poetess and Blogger. I have studied Journalism, and via my writing, I bring forth awareness on contemporary social issues that often don't meet the eye of a normal person. I have been a writer since my teenage years and my books are available Globally on Amazon.

My books are a recipient of multiple awards. It includes "Top 100 Debut Novels of India by literature light" "Best Fiction Author - 2021 by Litvoice" And "Writer of the year by FSB records" to name a few.

I regularly write quotes on self-love, healing, positivity, inspiration and share it via my social media. You can find me on Instagram @kirtichanglani

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Kirti: The Man with Blue eyes by Charles Bukowski.

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Kirti: Eavesdropping on conversations. Lol, might sound unethical and wrong. But often when we overhear conversations, as writers, it gives us something to ponder upon. Many times, writers find ideas too. I won't say listen and write someone's exact story. But definitely, it could give you a direction or a topic to start with.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Kirti: I mostly write on my phone's notes app. I plan out a basic summary or sketch the outline on paper. Many times, I even hand-write my stories. However, later while making the manuscript file, I add more and more. I use MS Word and Google Docs.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Kirti: I get ideas on random hours of midnight, or while in a full-crowded local train. I might be surrounded by silence or strangers, but if something catches my eye or has the power to emotionally move me. It finds a way to the book.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Kirti: It depends on how and when I write, from the previous questions you might have got an idea of my methods. So on days, I'm extremely tired but ideas are sitting. Then it could get exhausting. However, when I have an aim of finishing a manuscript, it gives me an energetic high to finish typing, be it one page or a full chapter.

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

Kirti: It totally depends on the type of book. My spare time and my willingness to make an effort. I wrote my first book in about six months, the second one took 8-9 months. I'm planning to publish my poetry collection, for which I've been writing poetry for the last 5 to 6 years now. I hadn't really planned to publish poetry, however, it's one of my love alongside storytelling and I believe I've gathered enough courage to take this plunge.

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?

Kirti: I wouldn't want to change anything. I've been a reader since my childhood, with time I have read everything from Newspapers, Storybooks, Magazines, and Novels. I take full experience of Life, be it positive or negative.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Kirti: There isn't any specific book. However, as I mentioned I used to read Magazines in multiple niches. From spirituality to science and environment.

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Kirti: None. I haven't read nor subscribed to any.

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

Kirti: Procrastination.

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Kirti: The climax of my Debut book "A Life, Less Ordinary" was a tough scene to write. It's full of emotions and I was straight up crying while writing that. One of my next book, which I'm writing since 2019, the story has multiple such scenes that left me shivering while writing.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Kirti: Of course, Who doesn't. :-)

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

Kirti: I don't think anyone knows me this much to be able to decipher it. However, if people closest to me ever read, maybe they might know. And there's one thing I believe, there are no secrets only truths waiting to be discovered.

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

Kirti: Yes, I read it all. I'm genuinely grateful to the ones who send me encouraging words and reviews. From my last two years in this writing journey, I could figure the best way to deal with bad or negative ones is to NOT deal with them. Arguing or proving yourself to anyone who doesn't already see your value isn't worth it.

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

Kirti: I think nonfiction holds a different place than fiction. I connect better with the fiction genre and I discover and learn more about it every time I open a book.

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Kirti: I remove phrases and paragraphs that don't align with the story. I work a lot on grammar and having a smooth plotline. It really breaks your heart to see something just go like that, but that's essential for an impactful book. Nobody really taught me anything in this field and I've learned it all by myself.

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Kirti: It isn't fixed. I could give an approximate of 4-5 hours.

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

Kirti: I don't think writing can be done part-time. It requires your heart and soul. I manage writing after I'm done with my studies and other errands. Although, technically whenever some ideas hit me - I note them down - and that way I can say I write 24/7. Actually, writing isn't anything like one 9 to 5 job…it's similar to being an artist; likewise, either you are a writer or you are not. It's like you have stories coursing through your veins and if that makes me one full-time writer...then, maybe I am one full-time writer.

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

Kirti: My books are fictional and I aim to keep them so. With fiction, I research about a particular location or era, if I'm adding elements, say social awareness, then I research upon it. I think fiction doesn't require extensive research like non-fiction unless the topic is such.

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

Kirti: Social media marketing and a digital presence on the right platforms. Besides, connecting with book bloggers also helps. If I knew what's the best way I wouldn't be so stressed. :)

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

Kirti: I have two unpublished books. They're both 80% finished in terms of the manuscript.

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

Kirti: After my first book, I became more aware of how to go about things. Which process works for me and in general, experience makes you better. I have made my writing skills more Fast-paced so readers have something news on every page. I'm evolving constantly and learning various aspects of publishing, chalking out my lists. So, yes, overall it gets better. :)

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

Kirti: When I was just starting out, an Author had helped me to copy-edit my book. I'm in touch with many writers, and I think everyone would have something new to teach you if you only wish to learn. I aim to collaborate more with members of my fraternity.

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

Kirti: I write for myself and it's my passion. I don't think any word I'd have ever written would be to deliver someone their favorite. Yes, one writer should always have a basic understanding of the Target audience and what type of things would work for a specific genre. A writer learns it either by the experience of honing their skills or from a mentor.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Kirti: I'd say keep writing and always be open to learning. Grow your confidence and never be discouraged. I think the publishing industry has an excess of glamour and show-off these days. Plus the competition is enough to make anyone go crazy. Put the focus on yourself and believe in your art. Don't delve on only the business part, if you do, it'll make you unhappy and won't serve the purpose either to you or to readers. Well honestly, this is the advice I wish someone gave to me. But here we go!

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

Kirti: I don't know much. I believe all learning in any form, from videos to eBooks can be available for free. If someone genuinely wishes to learn, they'll find pretty much everything online. You don't have to always subscribe to XYZ magazines in hopes of gathering something.

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

Kirti: So my recent-most book is titled "The Search For Belonging" - my book is a travel fiction novel. It was originally released in August 2020. Alongside being a story about three youngsters who are all from different walks of life, together on a trip. The story also has a mild flavor of self-discovery.

Though the book is entirely a light entertainment-based read. It also offers a dose of inspiration and romance.

I think readers must pick my book to get an adventure-like feeling in these tough times. Besides, my second book can even be read by those who don't really read a lot of books, considering I've written in a simple language for them.

To Know more about Kirti's "The Search For Belonging" check out this ,link.

Thanks to Kirti Changlani 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.

Interview With Soumya Ranjan, The Author of ‘THE VITAL TRUTH: MYSTERY’

About Author: Soumya Ranjan is an English author and also blogger. He

is also a poet and has written approx. 100 poems

He is one of India's youngest authors and also on his owns his studio

@hnssoumyastudio At a very young age, he also runs NGO @missionletsstart and

also working further. He is also a mimicry artist and comedian and his YouTube videos are recommended as fun. He has written 6 books and loves writing books for children...

He is very humble towards animals and also he loves to help people.

He achieved the young achiever's award in Pune and his books are appreciated by many

national best-selling writers and also by some Bollywood actors.

He has been giving many interviews and also invited to give a Ted Talk...

He is also a motivational speaker and has been helping many helpless people all around

India...

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Soumya Ranjan: I don't have any specific favorite short story but I love short stories

of Ruskin Bond and also of Sudha Murthy.

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Soumya Ranjan: The best piece of writing advice I would give to the Aspiring writers

that the more you write the better you write.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Soumya Ranjan: I love to write in my room and I am searching for a better place.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Soumya Ranjan: ideas come to my mind every time and some I inculcate and some I do

not…. The ideas on which I don't work upon maybe they give me a bad suggestion

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Soumya Ranjan: I write every day but if I write continuously for more than 2 hours it

exhaust me.

I love to write in the morning and in a pleasant day that makes me feel energetic.

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

Soumya Ranjan: It hardly takes me 6 months to complete a book. It also depends on

the publisher how much time will they take to publish the book

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?

Soumya Ranjan: I am now a child so my writing style is a little different because I

never think of a story before I start writing. I first write a paragraph and then I start

thinking about the story.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Soumya Ranjan: I love to read books of Chetan Bhagat and also I love to read books of

Ruskin Bond.

I don't have any specific book which is my favorite but yeah I would say that

Ajitabha Bose has penned down a book Love in Jamshedpur which I liked a bit.

Ravi: What are your favorite literary journals?

Soumya Ranjan: my favorite literary journals I would say you are the one and also I

have Ansuman Bhagat who is one of them

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

Soumya Ranjan: I don't have anything to give up but yeah I can give up my laziness

sometimes. Sometimes I work very hard and I feel tired so I take a nap for a little longer

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Soumya Ranjan: I don't feel any scene to be hardest as I try to write in a very simple

the way that anyone can read even a tea-seller.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Soumya Ranjan: whenever I feel that I have done something great I try to Google

myself.

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

Soumya Ranjan: yeah I actually hide Secrets in my book and very few of them try to

spot it out.

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

Soumya Ranjan: yeah I actually read my reviews but the good ones make me feel

proud and encouraged and when I see the bad ones I will try to compete with them and

make my next book better than that.

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

Soumya Ranjan: I don't write in a particular genre because whatever comes to my

mind I think it should be jotted down and I also write nonfiction books.

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Soumya Ranjan: I have my editing team and also I have my professional workers who

do the same.

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Soumya Ranjan: Actually the whole day I don't get time but I manage to write after

Midnight.

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

Soumya Ranjan: actually I'm not a full-time writer because I am too young now as I am

studying in class 8. I write because I have a passion for writing. So rather you can say

it's a part-time hobby.

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

beginning a book?

Soumya Ranjan: Before I start a book I do a lot of research and take help from many

websites. I also think twice before I start writing a sentence. I try to research a lot on the particular genre am writing.

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

Soumya Ranjan: The best way to market your books is social media and also launching

books can be a great idea.

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

Soumya Ranjan: I have two such books which are unpublished and one which is

underwriting.

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

Soumya Ranjan: Usually whenever I read my earlier books I think I could have

written better. My writing process has really changed if we compare it to my first

book.

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

writer?

Soumya Ranjan: when I started writing my recent book which is going to get published

soon, I got into contact with many authors and they have helped me whenever I ask

them for help. They help me in marketing also.

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

Soumya Ranjan: yes I try to be original as what I am today is because of my Readers.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Soumya Ranjan: I would tell that before you write one story you should read a hundred

stories of that particular genre. In my point of view, reading makes your vocabulary

strong and also so you get to know about the style of writing.

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

Soumya Ranjan: The magazine which I prefer is the Readers Digest and I also refer

this magazine to the writers.

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

Soumya Ranjan: I have published two books recently.

My one book ‘The vital truth’ is a poetry collection that is the best seller among the

genre. This book of mine will fill your mind with positivity and energize you.

The second book which I published is Love Attack which is a love story and also there is

a twist in the book which leads to an attempt at suicide. I am working on my new book which is the National bestsellers of India and have included 10 of the best sellers of India and have been contacting them and it is going to publish soon.

To Know more about Soumya's The vital truth check out this link.

Thanks to Soumya Ranjan 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.

Interview With Daisy Madaan, The Author of ‘The Art of Baking – Homemakers to Bakers’.

About Author: Daisy Madaan is an Engineer by Qualification, QA Lead by profession, Women Entrepreneur and now an author by Passion. She has worked for about fifteen years in the corporate sector and quit her high-profile job after the birth of her daughter. Sitting at home she realized there are many women like her who are restricted to home after having kids. Their families and home routines take priorities over their dreams and their passion. These things kept haunting her and she started looking for women who have paved their way in entrepreneurship despite all odds and are an inspiration for many. So she challenged herself and took it as a mission to inspire women around her.

To start with, she wrote the book, ‘The Art of Baking – Homemakers to Bakers’. It is an inspirational book that narrates the stories of successful home bakers who converted their passion to profession.

Ravi: What’s your favorite short story?

Daisy Madaan: Now a days, Ramayan stories as I have to narrate to my little daughter every night

Ravi: The Best piece of writing advice?

Daisy: Choose your niche and just start writing. Ideas will keep pouring in once you start.

Ravi: Where do you write?

Daisy: Google docs as file is shared between laptop and phone. So sometimes ideas come and I do not have access to laptop. During that time I open the google docs on my phone as phone is always accessible and write the notes or articles.

Ravi: Where do you get your ideas?

Daisy: I usually refer other books and blogs that how my article would be made interesting to read.

Ravi: Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Daisy:Hmm…mostly both…Because when I write my mind is full of thoughts or new ideas so it exhausts…but when I read whatever I have written it gives me energy to write more.

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

Daisy: I had to write stories of other entrepreneurs, for that I did telephonic interviews of those ladies. From my personal experience, I used to take 2 days to make notes out of the recorded conversation. The conversation was usually of 1 hour 30 mins to 2 hours. So listening, pausing and taking notes was time consuming task. And then I used to take 4-5 days for making article out of those notes. I targeted for 1500-2000 words for each article.

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?

Daisy: I would read a lot and lot. To become good writer, first you should be good reader too.

Ravi: What is your favorite childhood book?

Daisy: As a child I was very good in studies so had couple of favorite course books. But I did not have much inclination towards reading beyond my course books.

Ravi: What was your hardest scene to write?

Daisy: One question was common to all artists that what was the most challenging situation they faced. Many shared their personal experience when things went wrong unknowingly and it was THE testing time for them. For them it was easy to narrate the story and share how they felt at that time, but to put it in words, so that readers could feel that it was really tough situation what they faced.

Ravi: Do you Google yourself?

Daisy: Rarely before my book was published, frequency increased after the book was released and now after my interview, I will search more

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

Daisy: Not exactly. Since this is my debut book, I have written in very simple words so that that readers can relate easily.

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

Daisy: Oh yes for sure. That’s is one thing we are always hungry for .Good reviews give me satisfaction and encouragement and bad reviews are the ones that help to make us better. I always welcome bad reviews as scope of improvement. And I do understand that reviews depend on the readers interest too. So every author can have good and bad reviews depending who is reading the book.

Ravi: What did you edit out of this book?

Daisy: I did editing of the chapters individually and once it was final did not remove any thing.

Ravi: How many hours a day do you write?

Daisy: Usually 2 to 3 hours.

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

Daisy: As of now I am part time author but I write for my blog.

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

Daisy: I had researched almost a month about what chapters I will be writing and about whom I will be writing.

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

Daisy: I am using all digital media.

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

Daisy: As of now one is published and idea of two books is in my phone and mind

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

Daisy: Yes I have friends who are authors too. I kept pinging them for small small queries that I had in my mind about different aspects of book that included cover page, foreword, reviews of the book, about the book, about the author, how to market the book, when to share with friends that my book will be published, etc. Their timely advice had helped me a lot. Few things were not in my mind but after discussion with friends, I became aware of that. Also I read and referred books of few authors who are not my friends but still I know them through any reference.

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

Daisy: I have tried to deliver the real challenges and journeys of home bakers. So every word of the book was original and based on personal experience.

Ravi: What advice do you have for writers?

Daisy: Well since I have just begun my journey so I cant give advice to experts. But yes who are aspiring to become author, I would say keep it simple and straight so that people can connect with you.

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

Daisy: At different stages of life, I had subscribed to different magazines based on my interest and situation and what I was working during that period.

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

Daisy: My recent book is “The Art of Baking – Homemakers to Bakers”. The book is dedicated to womanhood and particularly home bakers. It is an inspirational book with the crux - passion to profession. I had interviewed top 9 and 2 aspiring home bakers from different cities of India. Have tried to share their struggles and journey that how they got motivated to take baking as a career along with have listed their achievements in baking industry. All came from different profession and now have specializations in different fields of baking. Also I have listed the challenges that generally home bakers face and book is ended with few tips of upcoming home bakers.

This book presents strong women and shows us that women can do everything. I love a story that empowers women and gives them the recognition that they deserve rather than writing a character about a female as a damsel in distress.

The book has been foreworded by Famous Nita Mehta who is Indian celebrity chef, author, restaurateur and media personality,TEDx speaker, celebrity judge on Master Chef (2011), and also featured in the book 'Millionaire Housewives' for her inspirational journey.

The book has reviews of famous home bakers and artists whose stories I could not cover in my book due to various reasons.

To Know more about Daisy's ,The Art of Baking check out this ,link.

Thanks to Daisy Madaan 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.