Sara Naveed has always had a keen interest in literature, but it was while she was away from home at her university hostel that she began writing her novel.
At present she has three published novels, all that deal with the trials and tribulations of love. Love perhaps in the modern sense of the word.
The novels include Our Story Ends Here, All Of My Heart and Undying Affinity. She is also working on her fourth novel these days.
Her books are available in most book stores. You can follow her on Instagram @sara_naveed
The Interview
How are you today?
Hi. I’m doing great, Alhamdulilah. Thanks for asking.
What words describe your writing journey the best?
Eye-opener, fascinating, and larger than life.
Writing a novel takes a lot of time and effort, so how did you manage it while being the student?
I started writing my first novel when I was studying for my Masters degree. Since I had classes in the evening, I was usually free in the day time and that’s what gave me ample time to work on the story.
Did the people around you know that you were writing?
My roommate knew I was writing a story but I don’t think she took me seriously until I got the book published. On the other hand, my sister knew about it and we both felt ecstatic.
Why do you think reading is important? What has it done for you?
Reading is important because I believe it helps shape us as a person. Apart from transporting us into another place and time, it helps us gain more insight into something. It helps increase our knowledge and enhances our vocabulary. For me, reading has evoked my writing passion. It made me believe I could also pen down a story.
What do you like to read?
Fiction. I love reading women fiction, romance, thriller, and mystery.
Poetry or fictions, which do you like more?
I’m not much of a poetry fan so yeah, I’d stick with fiction.
Would you like to see your love stories adapted for television?
Absolutely. In fact, I have so many readers who really want my books to get filmed. They have even imagined the star cast and keep notifying me about it. Hope that happens one day.
Which one of your novels do you recommend to everyone? Why is this novel special to you?
Our Story Ends Here. Whenever a new reader comes to me and asks me which book should they start reading first, I suggest them to read this one. I say this because I feel closer the story and the characters. I feel more connected to this one compared to the rest.
How can we get young people to read more?
We can arrange book clubs and conduct meetings where we can invite readers and spread awareness of how reading makes an impact in our lives.
Do you have any new novels planned?
My fourth book is almost ready. I’m only doing the final edits these days. Once the publisher is decided, I will reveal more details about it.
What do you think determines the success of a writer?
The number of readers who have enjoyed and loved reading your books and of course the number of good reviews. Money can never determine the success of a writer.
Maheen Ahmed – Writing to create culture
@lahore_la_notte_
