FRESH VOICES: Q&A with Harshita Jerath and Geeta Ladi, creators of A SWEET DIWALI

Join a young girl and her dog in this Step 2 reader as they joyfully prepare to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights!

1)    What inspired you to write and illustrate A Sweet Diwali?

Harshita Jerath: The book A Sweet Diwali is inspired by my childhood dachshund dog, Dollar, who sneaked into my family’s worship room and devoured the goodies laid out for the deity. This little dog who had a larger-than-life personality filled my childhood with joy. I celebrated the good times with him. And when my dad passed away, I found courage in his presence. So, when I wanted to write an early reader genre, the Diwali memory of my dog was the first story idea that popped into my head. This story was gentle enough for young readers and offered an engaging plot.

Geeta Ladi: Creating art for A Sweet Diwali was a journey down memory lane, drawing inspiration from my childhood Diwali memories filled with family gatherings, decorating, sharing sweets, and celebrating with friends. Growing up, I eagerly awaited the holidays, knowing they also meant new books as gifts! My dog Bella, who was sensitive to loud sounds, was a recent inspiration and helped me truly connect with the character of Lion in the story.

2)    What was the most difficult part about writing and illustrating the book? What part was the easiest?

HJ: I wanted this book to be a way for young readers to see themselves reflected, while also offering a peek to those who are discovering Diwali for the first time. The most challenging part was maintaining this delicate balance while having an exciting plot with limited word count and short simple sentences.

Mapping out the characters was the easiest. I knew that the story would have a little dog named “Lion,” and a compassionate girl character.

GL: Each spread spoke to me so simply that no part felt challenging to work on. Illustrating the sweets and Rangoli design was the easiest. Bringing them to life in vibrant colors was pure joy. Creating art for this book was truly uplifting, especially as I illustrated Lion, Raina, and their little moments together, filled with warmth.

3)    What element of the story do you identify with the most and why?

HJ: The warm connection between Raina and her pet, Lion, is my favorite. This companionship is weaved into the words and also beautifully illustrated as the two go about doing everyday things and celebrate the festival with their family.

GL: The connection between Raina and her dog touches me deeply. My own little Chihuahua, Bella, was also afraid of loud sounds, so I could relate to Raina’s compassion and the gentle way she cares for her pet.

4)    What do you want kids today to take away from this story?

HJ: My hope is that the emotional connection between Raina and Lion lingers with the readers and they are reminded to treat their pets with love and kindness.

GL: Through this story, I hope children are encouraged to embrace kindness and empathy, not just toward animals, but toward everyone they meet. In our busy world, it’s easy to overlook these small yet powerful acts.

5)    What sort of response has the book gotten from your family, friends, or attendees at any events you have participated in?

HJ: I’m excited that the book is receiving positive responses. My family and friends thought the book offered a mix of culture, family traditions, and pet love. They also appreciated the message of keeping our pets comfortable during the festival excitement.

Additionally, at the book launch, a little girl beamed with pride when she saw the art where the family offers prayers. She pointed to the deity in the picture and exclaimed, “I have the same statue at our house, too…” She felt seen, and I bet she grew an inch taller that day! It was a proud reminder of the important job we creators have.

GL: This Diwali, it was a special experience to gift A Sweet Diwali to the children in my family and among friends. They loved the simplicity of the story, the characters, and the festive illustrations. Many even shared their own experiences of comforting pets during festivals. Seeing how much the story resonated with them was deeply touching.

6)    Several states in the U.S. have declared Diwali an official public holiday. For instance, the school children of New York City were given the day off school by the Department of Education. How does that make you feel?

HJ: I feel seen, just like the girl at my book launch event. And I’m looking forward to more states adopting the Diwali holiday as it will be truly satisfying for families to celebrate the festival without the rush of getting kids to school.

GL: It’s great to know Diwali is recognized as a public holiday in several U.S. states. While I live in India, it’s wonderful to witness Diwali being celebrated in this way abroad. This recognition reflects a beautiful step toward cultural understanding and appreciation, allowing people from all backgrounds to embrace Indian traditions.

7)  What are you currently reading?

HJ: I have multiple books going right now. Atomic Habits by James Clear is by my side as a reminder how small changes lead to big impact. I’m loving the fast paced non-fiction book, The Mona Lisa Vanishes, by Nicholas Day. I am also reading Jaya:an illustrated retelling of the Mahabharata, is interesting read about the Hindu Epic Mahabharata.

GL: Lately, I’m enjoying Drawing for Illustration by Martin Salisbury, along with a delightful new collection of picture books, including AHOY! by Sophie Blackall.

A Sweet Diwali By Harshita Jerath; illustrated by Geeta Ladi

Join a young girl and her dog in this Step 2 reader as they joyfully prepare to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights! Perfect for readers ages 4-6.

Raina is excited to celebrate Diwali, a Hindu holiday that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. Along with her family and her best friend, Lion (a little dog with a big sweet tooth!), Raina helps prepare for the celebration. She decorates the house with clay lamps called diyas, makes beautiful rangoli designs with sand, watches colorful fireworks, and shares sweet treats with Lion. It’s a Diwali to remember!

Step 2 Readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories, for children who recognize familiar words and can sound out new words with help. Rhyme and rhythmic text paired with picture clues help children decode the story.