Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m currently studying Communication Design in Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture. I’ll be graduating this year at the age of 23. My dream was always to have real life work experience before graduation. I’ve tried many things, from being a special effects make-up artist, to a photographer, to a social media manager. And now I’m finally here, Entrepreneur of Hush Stories!
How did you come up with the idea of this book?
To be honest, all of us in some way or the other have experienced a situation in life which has been tough. And I couldn’t let another child be a victim to any of the stories we’ve heard on the news, or seen around us. The idea of this book came to me from the thought of my niece. The world is a scary place and I was worried that I might not always be there to protect her, which is why I made this book. It can teach her and all the kids in Pakistan to protect themselves in their own way.
How is this book different from other children’s book?
Being a Pakistani, I’ve made sure my books give a local feel. A feel which kids can relate to. Most importantly the story has been derived from a real incident (qasur kidnappings). And on top of it, it doesn’t tell kids what to do, but how to think, in their own style. There’s a great difference when you tell a kid “don’t do it” and when you tell a kid *this could be the consequence for your action, so think how you can overcome it.”
What lessons does this book teach the elders and children?
The main teachings to take out from my story book are:
Don’t tell children what to do, but rather tell them how to think in their own style.
Children should be aware of the dangers around them and the kind of touch which is good or bad.
Children should know the consequences of their actions, of why it’s important to stay away from strangers.
Parents should also be open to talk to their child about this issue.
What were some of the challenges you faced while working on this project?
Covering such a sensitive topic was extremely challenging. My aim is to make a child understand this issue. This was the toughest part as I had to do it in such a way which wasn’t harsh or scary, and which didn’t make the parents uncomfortable as the target audience was children, and not the parents. It took me a lot of time to think about the story on how it can be portrayed in a friendly, fun and an appropriate way. So I made sure from the words I’m using, to the story I’m telling, to the illustrations I’m making- all were child friendly.
What advice would you give to parents for awareness?
It’s extremely important for parents to talk to their children about this issue. Especially in Pakistan, it’s considered a huge taboo. And the line has to be broken and it’s time to tell the kids, why it’s really important to stay away from strangers and to make them aware of the risks involved. It’s time we openly discuss the understanding behind good touch and a bad touch. From anyone, a stranger to even a family member.
What advice would you give to kids?
Kids just keep being you. It’s our job to help educate you. Keep reading. Keep listening. And there will be a point in life where you’ll soon know how to tackle situations in your own style.
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