The recently–held book launch event by 16Leaves unveiled 10 talented child and young adult authors along with their books. A marvelous event, it saw children, parents, teachers, well-wishers and a host of media in attendance. The launch was conducted by 3 chief guests, Janaki Sabesh, Aysha Rau & Rohini Molleti, who are accomplished personalities in their own fields of interest. However, they share a keen interest in child development just like 16Leaves, which encouraged them to participate in the event. The event proceeded in merriment with 16Leaves creating a space for itself in the publishing field while pioneering a path in children’s publishing at the same time.

It was great to see that the Deccan Chronicle featured the event in an article called ‘Unleash the author in your child’. The article correctly states that 16Leaves is one-of-a-kind and also first-of-its-kind in trying to inspire child authors in our country. Although 16Leaves is based out of Chennai, it is meant to be a global platform for children where they can unleash their imagination and creativity in creating something beautiful. However, 16Leaves believes that this beauty should not be concealed from the world. Each child must have the opportunity to show the world what he or she is truly capable of. Bharath Parthasarathy, the founder of 16Leaves asserts that 16leaves is a publisher that caters to everyone from budding to experienced authors with a range of publishing services but his interest in children led him to pursue this novel concept with zest. He believes that there is a lot of untapped potential among children and young adults; an array of fresh thoughts and ideas that need to be exhibited. With 16leaves willing to showcase children’s talents, they should hardly be restricting themselves anymore.

Although the article features two authors: Sanaya Manglic – author of Adventures of Sanaya and Aishwarya Karanam – author of Words of the Wise, there were 8 other proud authors who gleefully stood with their publications. Sanaya Manglic not only wrote her book but also created her own book cover and illustrations. As a multitalented girl from Mumbai, she aspires to be a famous author one day by adding many more publications to her credit. Aishwarya Karanam, a class 10 student from Chennai wrote 100 quotes of wisdom. She took 1 year to compile the quotes and complete her book and she claims to have enjoyed every bit of the experience. With her quotes being intellectual and way beyond her years, it is without doubt that she will achieve a name for herself in the literary world. She says, “Children must be allowed to express themselves as they are capable of imagining things that adults cannot.”

The confidence that these children possess is amazing and 16Leaves hopes to instill the same feeling in many more children by publishing their dreams.

Written by – Radhika Pillai