Enzo, a curious little puppy lost in the bustling streets of Bangalore, has no idea his life is about to change forever. Scared, hungry, and alone, he’s rescued by the kind-hearted Mr Moo, who brings him into a world filled with warmth, bubble baths, love, and… a whole lot of mischief!
No, Enzo, No! is a tender and playful picture book that teaches children about empathy, responsibility, and the joy of giving abandoned animals a second chance. Through Enzo’s messy, funny, heartfelt journey, young readers learn that love isn’t always perfect—but it’s always worth it.
Perfect for ages 3–5, this story makes a beautiful addition to bedtime shelves, classroom libraries, and family read-aloud moments.
Q: What inspired you to write for a younger audience, and how do you approach crafting stories that resonate with children?
A: I’ve been a storyteller since childhood—narrating imaginary tales to my toys, birds, and even my mother. I’ve always believed that children see the world with a kind of magic adults often forget. Writing for them allows me to turn imagination into language and emotion. My goal is to honour the wonder and curiosity they naturally possess while giving them stories they can feel, not just read.
Q: Children’s books often carry important messages. What values or themes did you hope to convey in your latest book?
A: My book hopes to spark empathy in children for abandoned animals. It is inspired by a real Indie dog named Enzo, who was found on the streets of Bangalore by Avinash—who also illustrated the book. Through Enzo’s journey, children learn about rescue, compassion, responsibility, and the beautiful bond that forms when love finds a second chance.
Q: Illustrations are key in children’s books. What was the collaboration with your illustrator like?
A: The process was wonderfully collaborative, especially because my illustrator is also one of my closest friends. We began with mood boards, character sketches, and visual notes on the emotional tone of each scene. I would describe the feeling or magic I wanted a page to convey, and he would bring it to life through art. It was an effortless exchange of trust, imagination, and shared vision.
Q: How do you balance entertainment and education when writing for young readers?
A: I believe children learn best through joy, not instruction. So I begin with a story that delights—full of humour, heart, and imagination—while letting deeper themes grow naturally beneath it. I never talk down to children; instead, I give them room to question, wonder, and think. If a child finishes the book wanting to talk about it, or reflect on it, or even act on it—that’s when I know the book has done its job.
Q: Your characters feel real and relatable. How do you create them, and do they come from your own childhood?
A: Thank you! My characters come from a blend of memory, real-life observations, and imagination. They often begin as fragments—someone I saw, something I felt, or a moment I lived—and then slowly grow into beings children can recognise, root for, and love.
Q: In a digital world full of screens, what role do children’s books still play?
A: Books offer what screens can’t: stillness, intimacy, and imagination without limits. They invite children to touch pages, hear stories aloud, and pause to notice detail. Books help children slow down, feel deeply, and dream beyond what’s shown to them. They create a space for reflection, bonding, and wonder—and that will never go out of style.
Q: How do you tailor your language and writing style for young readers?
A: I write with a balance of playfulness and depth. The language must be simple enough for a child to enjoy, yet rich enough for them to grow into. I choose rhythmic, vivid words—ones that are fun to read aloud and meaningful when re-read later. A good children’s book grows with the child; it doesn’t outgrow them.
Q: How do you see your book being used by families, teachers, or educators?
A: I hope my book becomes part of bedtime routines, circle time in classrooms, and moments of shared reading in homes. Inspired by Montessori principles, it encourages children to explore, question, imagine, and empathise. I intentionally leave space for discussion—so adults and children can pause, laugh, and talk together. A good story is not just read; it’s experienced.
🐾 Order “No, Enzo, No!” on Amazon today and inspire empathy—one page at a time. Ideal for homes, classrooms, and every young reader who loves animals!
