Two Sisters, One Nani, Ancient Secrets: Inside the Mind Behind the Story
Off to Kashthasur Island by Remy Fernendes
Get ready for a thrilling adventure! Two brave sisters, guided by their wise and wonderful Nani, embark on a quest to save their village from an ancient mystery. With magic, excitement, and heartwarming moments, this tale will take you on a journey of discovery and courage.
A heartwarming tale of sisterhood and bravery, ‘Off to Kashthasur Island’ weaves magic and familial bonds into a gripping adventure. Guided by their wise Nani, the two sisters face an ancient mystery that threatens their village—and in doing so, discover the true power of love, courage, and resilience. Perfect for readers young and old, it delivers excitement, wonder, and a touching sense of home.
Below is the interview we took with the author:
Which illustration made you feel most excited (or calm, or curious)? Why?
The scene where Scarlett leaves Esther behind and Esther gets scared of a wild lizard really stands out to me. I find it so cute and dynamic, especially with the way the characters are posed and the angle of the shot. It perfectly captures that mix of fear and childlike wonder.
Has your grandmother or another adult taught you something magical—what was it?
My grandmother was a wonderful storyteller. I particularly remember a tale she used to tell about a hardworking group of ants and a monkey. It's a universal moral story, one that even Disney picked up for one of its 'Silly Symphony' series. It always felt magical to hear her spin those tales.
Which sister would you most like to be, and why?
I'd definitely be a little Scarlett. In fact, I've infused much of my own childhood character into her. As the youngest in my family, I was a bit pampered and always had that "my life, my rules" attitude, just like Scarlett!
Have you ever been in a situation where you felt brave like the sisters?
Absolutely! I remember a time when one of our cows got lost. My dad, with a firm but loving tone, told me not to come home until I found him. I ended up going alone through the jungle, to a place I'd never been before, to search for him. That certainly felt like a moment of true bravery, much like what the sisters experience.
Which group—kids, grown-ups, or both—do you think this story is meant for?
This is a fun story primarily written for kids who have a love for nature and rural life. Being born and brought up in a village, my own love for nature is infinite, and I wanted to share that wonder with young readers.
Do you think someone without a “Nani” at home could connect with Nani in the story? Why?
Yes, absolutely! This story is all about an imaginary adventure and doesn't necessarily rely on the reader having a "Nani" of their own. Just like I used to fantasize about becoming a superhero who could solve the world's problems, this story is for any child who loves to fantasize and dream big.
Why should children read about adventure and mystery like this? Will this story help children learn about courage and empathy?
Adventure stories are incredible because they allow children to forget their present situation and embark on a fantastic journey. This particular story clearly demonstrates the significance of courage, teamwork, and empathy. These three factors are crucial in shaping individuals and helping them become responsible members of society. Through the sisters' journey, children will see these values in action and understand their importance.
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From the Editor's desk
Vanshika Gupta