Up Close With The Prodigal Son

February 28, 2017

He is a 15-year-old studying in Vibgyor High. But Prashant Wason is more than an ordinary teenager. This prodigal 10^th grader is already a published author!

Following the success of his debut book, ‘The Unknown Realm- War and Beyond’, he is well on his way to penning down a sequel. A Pottermaniac and football enthusiast, here’s what Prashant has to say about his journey and the special bond he shares with his mother.

“Words cannot describe the loving relationship between my mother and I. “My mother is my mentor, my guardian angel and my friend. She sees her successes in mine and inspires me to work hard and bring a smile to her face.”

Ask him about his writing journey he says, “I am reasonably good at writing. But so are many more kids of my age..

His apparent adoration of his parents makes you want to know more about the woman who nurtured and honed his talent. Ritu Wason, the indulgent matriarch and career woman speaks to us:

Tell us about your first attempts at introducing Prashant to literature.

A book lover myself, I would coax Prashant, buy him books, and read with him to generate interest. He slowly started with Roald Dahl, moved to Harry Potter and Hunger Games.

At what age did he show first signs of writing prowess?

He started writing poetry when he was in grade 7. His poetry was very deep and intense. He then started weaving his thoughts into a story and that’s how his journey began.

As a strong career woman, how do you juggle work and focus on your child’s career ?

My career began in the fashion industry, but later I took to teaching where I have found my passion and purpose.I believe, multitasking comes naturally to women. It is our intrinsic nature to juggle work and home.

We spent a lot of time and effort in the initial stages. My husband and I provided as much support as we could. Prashant’s debut novel is gathering a lot of appreciation from readers. It feels good.

Why is Prashant considering an alternate career to writing?

Prashant is very passionate about writing. Yet he is also very academically inclined. He’s keen on becoming a research scientist..

What is your advice to parents who want to hone their children’s talent ?

Nobody understands a child better than his mother. As mothers, we know our child’s strengths, talents and weaknesses. My advice to all the parents is to let your child come to you with his dream, give him the wings and he will carve a rainbow on the sky for you to look up and admire.

Prashant has this message for fellow readers and storytellers. “Writing takes you to great lands beyond ordinary imagination and it can move mountains within hearts. Dream and dream big, but keep your feet firm on the ground. Never ever lose faith in your ability to be a storyteller. It’s your story and it is bound to happen” ..