The fantasy is based on real theories, says author of ‘The Forestborns’

Were you aware of Darwin’s scientifically proven “The power of movement in plants”, and how plants feel, communicate and sense danger? Your fantasy novel seems to take the essence of it and apply it to the narrative.

Yes, Darwin’s theory left a lasting impression on me. Also, recent studies that prove plants can sense light, communicate through underground fungal networks, and even form memories that help them adapt to environmental changes contributed to the inspiration for my story. All the fantasy elements in this book are loosely based on real theories and studies.

You have a very visual style of writing. While reading your book, one can see the owl and the trees. Tell us your approach towards writing a fantasy novel.

It comes from my love of reading other authors like Enid Blyton, Frances Hodgson Burnett, Leigh Bardugo, Madeline Miller, and Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, who have a similar visual style of immersive writing and world-building.

Why particularly sandal wood trees? And why are the protagonists girls?

Sandalwood trees are often the target of illegal logging in India, so they became a natural symbol for the threat that the forest faces in the story. As for the protagonists being young girls, it was a conscious choice to show that traits like strength, bravery, leadership, determination, confidence, stoicism, sacrifice, independence and protectiveness aren’t limited by age or gender.

What is your hope/message that your readers will get from this novel?

I believe that when we genuinely empathise with something, we’re more inclined to care for it. My aim is to highlight critical issues like climate change, deforestation and forest fires from a fresh angle by weaving them into an engaging story. I truly hope this will encourage readers to look at plant life in a new light and feel inspired to take action and make a positive difference.