2021 Mentee Interviews

Tell us a little about yourself. Who are you, what do you write, and what are you working on right now?

Hi! My name is Safa, I’m a twenty-years old, and I write YA contemporary stories full of slow-burn, angst, and Brown joy/heartbreak. I am currently revising my YA contemporary book called SWEETER THAN JALEBI, which features a pair of Pakistani-academic rivals who must work together to achieve their dreams. 

What kind of stories are you interested in exploring in your career as an author?

I’m a massive fan of fantasy books. I love escaping into a different world through the pages of a book. One of favourites is City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty and a recent one I just finished is SIX CRIMSON CRANES by Elizabeth Lim. It would be an absolute dream to write a fantasy novel, one that is inspired by folklore from my own culture—maybe once I’m done exploring the stories I have yet to tell in the contemporary world. 

What's the best thing about you as an author?

My imposter syndrome is screaming in the background, but I’m going to stomp down on it and say that I think the best thing about me as an author is my adaptability. I’m not immune to feeling hurt at criticisms and rejections, but I’ve learned to be more flexible in my approach. Overall, I think my determination to get to the most polished version of any of my stories is the best trait I’ve developed as an author. 

How have you developed as an author during this mentorship period? Is there anything that you didn't think before about the craft that you think now?

This mentorship has been the most fulfilling experience, and my mentors, Kalie and Lauren, have been absolutely amazing. Before this, I had no idea how to revise my book. I was at a standstill, unsure of how I was supposed to tear this story apart and put it back together. 

When I got the edit letter from my mentors, my revising style was shaped from that moment. I didn’t realise how many ways there were to revise, and how important it is to find the method that works best for you and your story. I remember, in particular, how monumental Kalie was in moulding how I tackle revisions now—the little tips, the different tactics, the calls. Everything I learned from this mentorship has helped me develop into a better writer and reviser. 

If every book is a book baby, then it takes a village to raise a book. Are there any people who stand out to you as people who helped you in your writing journey?

Abbey Williams was my first beta, and without her, SWEETER THAN JALEBI would not be where it is today. I’ve also got to give a special shout out to Camille Carine and Ananya Devarajan (add her book Kismat Connection on Goodreads!), who I met through Kalie. They’ve been the most amazing support, from holding my hand throughout my querying journey to reading and loving my story so wholly. 

Speaking of Kalie, her unwavering support means the world to me. She’s loved my story even when I couldn’t, she’s been my positive light when I’m in the throes of my imposter syndrome, and I feel incredibly grateful to say I was one of her first mentees. I’m not sure I can ever write another story without her reading it—her editorial eye, her own gorgeous prose, everything about the way she tackles revisions was a privilege to witness and receive. 

I need to give a shoutout to my mom for being my best critic and biggest supporter, my dad for listening to all my story-related rants, my brother for tolerating my querying mood swings, and my sister for listening to me read the earliest, messiest version of my book out loud.

What do you think is the biggest necessity for a group of writing friends? (This answer can be anything from "trust and communication" to "a sweet slack server")

Trust for sure! It’s important to feel comfortable with your group of writing friends. Writing is so personal and sharing the smallest of snippets can feel like you’re baring a part of yourself for others to see. It’s important to feel safe in your writing group and to set boundaries where needed. 

Any parting words for young writers looking for guidance, or a community?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! Comment, like, retweet other writer’s posts—I’m sure they’re going to be flattered by your interest. It can be terrifying to share your writing, but it’s also one of the best ways to find like-minded writers or just people who want to support and love your story. 

What about your own craft, interests, and abilities drew you to your mentee and their work?

I’m a sucker for gorgeous prose, ensemble casts, unique formatting, academic rivals-to-lovers, healthy female friendships as well as friendship breakup stories, anxiety rep, and books that capture the magic, awkwardness, and authenticity of growing up. Truly, Safa’s book was everything I could ever dream of and when I came across her submission I knew instantly this was a book I wanted to work with. Heartfelt, real, beautiful, and interspersed with recipes, SWEETER THAN JALEBI is a pure delight. I read Safa’s pages and synopsis and something just clicked. Not only did I endlessly love her book and find her completely lovely, but all of the skills and tips accumulated in my own mentorship experiences could be applied here whether it be regarding pacing or weaving together a multitude of plot threads. From big picture to line edits, this manuscript was such a pleasure to work with and the author has become one of my closest friends, as kind and genuine as the words she writes!

Do you have a message for anyone interested in your mentee's work?

Safa is a special writer. A speedy, thorough expert of revision, a stunning novelist, and a completely wonderful person, she captures heart and hope unlike anyone I’ve ever met. If you’re reading her words, it’s a gift, and I feel so very lucky to have had a view of her amazing journey.