Harp, Stars, and Magic: An Interview with Author and Harp Enthusiast Shveta Thakrar

Shveta Thakrar and her book Star Daughter

Welcome to this week’s episode of HarpSong™️.

Shveta Thakrar, is a writer and lover of the harp.  The heroine in her new novel, “Star Daughter”, plays the music of the stars on her harp, after all, she is half star and half human.  In this, Shveta’s first novel, she spins a story of magic, of stars, of a young woman’s strength,  her friendships and family. The world in this novel moves between New Jersey and the stars and Vedic Nakshatras, or constellations.  Music is the heartbeat of this book and the harp makes a prominent role in the story.

Shveta is a proponent of  the We Need Diverse Books movement and is passionate about portraying positive representations of women of Indian descent. She also plays the harp and has taken lessons from my friend, Kathy DeAngelo , who runs The Somerset Folk Harp Festival which will take place online this July 22nd-25th 2021. I’m so glad that Kathy suggested I interview Shveta.  I hope you enjoy our chat and get inspired. 

“Star Daughter”, ended up in at least nine subscription boxes in 2020.  Boxes like Owl Crate are where young readers get exciting boxes filled with inspiring books and fun items that go along with them.  Shveta spent a good portion of 2020 singing over 30,000 books for the subscription boxes!

I got to catch up with Shveta just after she finished a draft of her next novel, “The Dream Runners”.  She has certinally had a busy year.  This February 17th she will be doing a reading at the KGB bar in New York City.  More information can be found on their website.  www.kgbfantasticfiction.org/upcoming-readers

If you are interested in learning more about Indian Literature, Folklore, and Fables here is the link to the comic books that Shveta recommended www.amarchitrakatha.com


LINKS

Shveta’s Website: www.shvetathakrar.com

We Need Diverse Books: diversebooks.org

The Somerset Folk Harp Festival: www.somersetharpfest.com/index.shtml

Owl Crate Book Subscription Boxes: www.owlcrate.com/blogs/owlcrate

KGB Bar NYC Fantasy Fiction Readings: www.kgbfantasticfiction.org/upcoming-readers

Amarchitrakatha Comics: www.amarchitrakatha.com

YA Author Laini Taylor: www.lainitaylor.com


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A Preview of a Harp Packed March and 7 Things to Help Bring You Joy

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Part 2: Janet Harbison - The Story of Camac’s “Janet” Harp, tips to playing Harp in Irish Music Sessions and more…