Firstly, Eid Mubarak To Everyone!

I don’t know about any of you, but I’ve certainly not lost any weight! Lost a few pounds during fasting, only to gain three times as much after the Eid feast! But hey, can anyone resist an Eid feast?!

I want to say thank you to all those that have written in. I’ve enjoyed reading your comments and questions that some of you asked. Some questions were similar so I thought why not post them for all. Hopefully now I can look forward to answering some new questions!

Where do you spend your Eid holidays?

It depends where I am and the rest of the family. Normally, I prefer to be in Pakistan during Eid Al Adha for the Qurbani’s, it is wonderful being able to share the meat out. Currently, I have spent this Eid Al Fitr with family in England.

Which is your favourite country that you like travelling to the most?

To be honest, I don’t really have a favourite, each country has its own special qualities and I love each one that I travel to. For me I like to experience the cultures and the traditional ways of life, I think that’s what makes it so fascinating for me as each is different. My most recent visit was to China, and I found it to be such a beautiful country and the people so friendly.

Would you ever write a children’s book?

Em, now funny you should ask me that – I already do have an idea churning in my head for a children’s book. So hopefully yes in the future, as they say watch this space!

Is there anyone famous that you have met or would like to meet?

Wow, I’ve never been asked this question before! To be honest I’m not sure if there is a particular person in mind as there are a lot of wonderful famous inspiring people. But as a child I did meet the late Princess Diana, that was awesome, I can still remember her in a blue outfit with white shoes. Such a warm personality. I don’t think there is anyone in the world today that I can honestly say can top that experience for me, she was one of a kind and I feel privileged to have met her.

What inspired you to write FORGIVENESS, HAJJ: Once In A Lifetime?

Well, to be honest it’s a combination of a lot of things. I’ve always wanted to share knowledge on the way of life and the similarities of other faiths. I think the biggest inspiration for me was actually making that journey myself and experiencing the beauty of Hajj. The whole journey was beautiful.

How long does it take to write a book?

Good question! It varies. For some authors, they can churn out a novel or two within a year, whilst some it may take a year or two or even longer. But I think there is no real answer to that as it depends on the story one is writing, personal circumstances i.e. whether one is a full time or part time writer. For me, I’d say on average two years. The ideas are there churning in my head – sometimes two or three books ahead  – I just wish I could type a thousand times faster!

Your words are inspiring, who was your writing inspiration in life?

I think the biggest inspiration for my writing as a child would have to be my parents and teachers from Primary school onwards. My parents for introducing me to the library at the age of two! Ever since I have always loved to read books, imagining that one day I’d see my book on the shelf. To this day, I do still regularly visit my local library. I prefer to have a hard copy book to read in my hand than an ebook – holding an actual paper book has that great magical feeling! My English teachers have too been a great inspiration. I have always loved to write and at times got carried away! Once I got told off by my English teacher for writing a 20 page essay, she said she was expecting a two or three page essay not a novel! She spent the whole night marking it – but she loved it and I got an A grade.

What advise can you give to someone that wants to write?

Read, read and read more. The more you read from various sources, it will help your chances to becoming a great writer. Nobody is perfect. Many authors have their own writing styles, some may disapprove of other’s, but as long as written clearly and captures your audience you’re on your way. Always proof read your work, and get someone else to read it too. A fresh eye will see common mistakes that you may miss, it can happen!

If you weren’t a writer what would you have done instead?

Well, I suppose apart from paintings and into art, I would have gone into fashion designing. I love sewing and sew nearly all my outfits, a gift I have inherited from my dear mother who is a great seamstress!

What is the idea of your next book?

Emm…I’m not sure if I can reveal that just yet! Let’s say it is completely different to what I have written already, this one is a bit more adventurous, finding lost treasure with a pinch of past history…!

BR x