Vivek Shraya's Blog, page 18
October 17, 2016
October 12, 2016
The Boy & the Bindi featured in Room Magazine
“…with Shraya’s book it is not just about reading something new, it is about wishing you’d had this book in your hands as a child, it is knowing you’ve read something that has transformational qualities. The Boy & the Bindi follows a young boy on his journey to understanding the faith he and his mother share, what the particular tradition of wearing a bindi means, and how he understands himself by wearing a bindi. The story is accompanied by some of the most lush illustrations I’ve ever seen—especially where South Asian culture is concerned—and overall, the picturebook is sure to delight readers, young and old…”
October 10, 2016
October 9, 2016
October 5, 2016
October Open Book Column
In this month’s column, I talk to designers about what makes a great book cover! Illustration by Karen Campos Castillo.
October 3, 2016
October 2, 2016
The Boy & the Bindi on National Post Bestseller List
Speechless to see The Boy & the Bindi on !
September 29, 2016
Have You Told Your Parents – New Essay for Buzzfeed
What would happen if instead of asking trans and queer people if they have come out to their parents, we told them that they are loved, that parental acceptance is not paramount to living queerly, and that we have a rich history of building chosen families that allow each other to be seen fully and adored? Moreover, why aren’t parents bombarded with the question, “Have you accepted and celebrated your trans or queer child?” as often as we are asked “Have you told your parents”? Why must trans and queer people bear the burden of parental disclosure and of proving that we are still worthy of their love and approval? Why aren’t parents expected to be accountable to their children? Why aren’t they asked, “Do you see your children for who they are?” Instead, the lack of parental acceptance is often excused under the banners of their upbringings or generational and cultural differences, even though we aren’t similarly excused for not wanting to navigate our parents’ unpredictable reactions. Parents are also given time “to come around.” And yet, not one person has said to me, “You can take your time in coming out to your parents.”
September 26, 2016
E-Writer in Residence for Teens at Toronto Public Library
Are you a writer/artist between the ages of 12-19? I am the new E-writer in Residence for Teens at Toronto Public Library and YOU are welcome to send me your writing/art for feedback and support!
I will also have a weekly “Ask Vivek” column on the TPL Teens website. Feel free to ask me questions relating to writing and art making! Can’t wait to hear from you! vshraya@torontopubliclibrary.ca
