EI Spotlight Interview: Harshita Jerath

Harshita Jerath writes stories that seek to entertain children. She shares her views about everyday life on her blog, https://ipenlife.com/. Her debut picture book, THE LEAPING LADDOO, illustrated by Kamala Nair, will be published by Albert Whitman in March 2022. 

Harshita is represented by Beth Marshea of Ladderbird Literary Agency.

She currently lives in Scottsdale, Arizona, with her husband and two boys aged 10 and 12. Find out about her upcoming books at http://harshitajerath.com/.

Website: http://harshitajerath.com/

Instagram: @harshitajerath

Twitter: @hjerath

Equity and Inclusion Member Spotlight Interview:

Meet Harshita Jerath – Author of Picture Book THE LEAPING LADDOO 2022.

Interviewed by Cynthia Harmony

Hi Harshita, it’s so nice to connect with you again. Fun fact, Harshita and I used to be in a diverse critique group that came together through the 12×12 group! Thank you for being our second SCBWI-AZ Equity and Inclusion Member Spotlight! 

Thank you, Cynthia, for hosting me on Spotlight. Much appreciated.

Can you tell us how long have you been a member of SCBWI-AZ and what’s your favorite part about your membership?

I’ve been a member of SCBWI for the last five years.

First and foremost, the SCBWI community gave me a sense of belonging which is very important as writing is a solitary job. It has helped me collaborate with the Kidlit community and form deeper connections. And then, the monthly mingles of my local chapter have provided me with a welcoming platform to connect, learn and grow together with other diverse talents.

Can you share the story behind your upcoming book? 

The story idea of THE LEAPING LADDOO was born while making a large laddoo (pronounced as luh-DOO), a round Indian dessert, for my son’s birthday. And, I thought, what if the laddoo slips from my hand and starts sprinting like the Gingerbread Man?