Growing up in Melbourne, Australia, my early years were marked by the excitement of having rabbits as pets. Although my memories are a bit hazy, my older brother, three years older than me, recalls them vividly. These early encounters with animals sparked my creativity in ways I didn’t fully understand.
While writing Ratnapped, I wanted to recapture the magic of my childhood and give a new, playful perspective on animals that are often misunderstood, like rats and pigeons. Inspired by my own experiences, I aimed to show just how intelligent and unique these creatures really are.
Writing Ratnapped was like returning to my younger days, reconnecting with the wonder and excitement of being a child. It was more than just writing a story—it was about weaving my early memories into a tale that celebrates the charm of these often-misjudged animals.
In the end, Ratnapped became a joyful blend of past and present, turning cherished memories into a story that invites readers to see these animals in a new light. This journey reminded me that our childhood experiences can be magical sources of inspiration, positively shaping our creativity.