Young readers don't want to be dictated to: Children’s author Serena Patel launches new series
Birmingham-based Serena Patel is the award-winning author behind the ‘Anisha, Accidental Detective’ series. This week marks the launch of a heartwarming and hilarious new series, illustrated by Emma McCann, that introduces a vibrant, multicultural cast of characters from a range of family backgrounds, reflecting the beautifully diverse world children grow up in today.
‘Pia’s Pet Club: Puppy Problem’ is the first instalment in a lively, pet-filled adventure that celebrates friendship, community and South Asian heritage. Inspired by her own upbringing, raised in a British Indian household where having pets was not a norm, this new book follows the story of Pia who is determined to prove to her parents that she is responsible enough to have a pet. In this interview, Patel talks through the rich themes woven through the pages, her literary inspirations and passion for diverse representation.
MORE LIKE THIS…
How was ‘Pia’s Pet Club’ conceived?
The idea about because we were kind of thinking about what I would write next. I'd already written one series and we were thinking about the sorts of books that might be feel relatable to children of this age group (7+) and somebody mentioned the word pets.
It was quite coincidental because at that same time, my son was spending all his time trying to persuade me that we should get pets. He'd done PowerPoint presentations, he'd made lists and really done his research.That inspired me to think about, perhaps not a child that has a pet, but a child that really, really wants a pet.
What is your approach behind incorporating Indian cultural references?
When I was growing up, there weren't really any books that I came across that had South Asian culture in them, or with a South Asian main character. It felt really important to create something that South Asian children could see themselves in, but also that could act as a window to people who are not from a South Asian background. Something that they can read to kind of enrich their understanding of what our culture is about, but also that it's not the point of the story. It just kind of opens up conversations about the culture, keeping it as natural as possible.
MORE LIKE THIS…
How do you tackle tougher topics such as bullying?
I try and deal with it in a very kind, gentle and humorous way, and sort of tackle it that way; because I think young readers don't want to be dictated to. They are very intelligent. So, it's trying to keep that balance of getting across a positive message, but also not dictating or talking down to readers.
How would you describe your connection with Indian themes?
I am half Gujarati and half Punjabi. In terms of the culture, I think I always felt like I was somewhere in the middle. I think perhaps the books have kind of given me more of a sense of belonging.
In a way, I think I grew up feeling like I didn't know enough about my culture and writing the books has kind of helped me explore that a little bit.
*Info: Serena Patel