Interview with author Andaleeb Wajid: Inspiration struck in an auto ride

Author Andaleeb Wajid has published eight novels, notable among them being My Brother’s Wedding, More than Just Biryani, The Tamanna Trilogy and most recently, When She Went Away. Her latest book, Asmara’s Summer is about a smart, sassy and popular girl Asmara who has to spend her entire summer vacation with her conservative grandparents in their claustrophic house, possibly without Internet.

Does inspiration strike you at the oddest of moments/ places?
For this book, it was when I was in an auto, passing by Tannery Road that I thought of the story.

Best opening line that you have ever read?
The Lollipop Shoes by Joanne Harris — “It is a relatively little known fact that over the course of a single year, about 20 million letters are delivered to the dead.”

Which genre draws you the most as a reader and writer?
Romance and Young Adult as a writer. As a reader, crime fiction and thrillers along with the above two.

What is your antidote for writer’s block?
Baking, a walk in the park, shopping!

One fictional character close to your heart and why?
Sidney Carton, from A Tale of Two Cities. I like how human he is, his flaws, his longing for the unattainable woman he loves.

Ending of one popular book you would have changed, if you were the author?
Rohinton Mistry’s A Fine Balance. It’s one book whose ending makes me unbelievably sad and fills me with despair. I’d have probably tried to inject a little hope.