Sep 23Liked by Robin Cangie (she/her), Lisa Kahn Schnell, Robin Taylor (he/him), Rose G.
Fascinating! Both interviewer and interviewee. Last year I revisited the Bhimbetka rock caves in Madhya Pradesh and was enchanted all over again - such an extraordinarily beautiful place. I also visited the site of the abandoned Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, full of dragonflies and butterflies and a scent that I mistook for mint (my friends tell me it was "van tulsi" (Ocimum gratissimum)).
Thanks so much, Fiona! Both the caves and the abandoned factory sound fascinating. I love imagining the contrast of the old factory structures with the plants and insects. Were you able to wander freely?
I agree! I think both projects grow out of deep respect and observation of the natural world, and they also become relatable by weaving in so much about both the maker and the subject matter.
Thank you for your interest, Marti--I'll make sure Shivani sees this. I don't think the Neighbirdhood book (if that's the one you're referring to--?) is officially published. But she is working on her MFA in illustration now, so it seems likely that there will be many books in her future!
Sep 24Liked by Robin Cangie (she/her), Lisa Kahn Schnell, Robin Taylor (he/him), Rose G.
Shivani's focus on urban ecosystems and her belief in co-existing with wildlife in cities is inspiring. It gives me hope that we can create a harmonious balance between urban development and preserving green spaces. Her work with children's literature as a tool for environmental education is truly commendable.
Thanks, Alexander! I'm always surprised by how much wildlife you can find in cities. And in recent years there's been a lot of interest in making space for even more--both in terms of actual, physical space, and also in terms of educating ourselves and others to be more open to ideas of how that coexistence might manifest itself. Children's literature is absolutely an important part of that!
Sep 24Liked by Robin Cangie (she/her), Lisa Kahn Schnell, Robin Taylor (he/him)
Great post. I, too, love nature and try to bring it into my mystery writing. I grew up on a farm and the lovely walks in fields, pastures, and timberlands seem to bring something that seeps into my writing and thinking all the time. Thanks for this post and for mentioning your picture book. I'm working on some nature PBs of my own, so I'm looking forward to reading your work and appreciating your art.
Fascinating! Both interviewer and interviewee. Last year I revisited the Bhimbetka rock caves in Madhya Pradesh and was enchanted all over again - such an extraordinarily beautiful place. I also visited the site of the abandoned Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, full of dragonflies and butterflies and a scent that I mistook for mint (my friends tell me it was "van tulsi" (Ocimum gratissimum)).
Thanks so much, Fiona! Both the caves and the abandoned factory sound fascinating. I love imagining the contrast of the old factory structures with the plants and insects. Were you able to wander freely?
Yes, more or less.
https://fionaerskine.com/revisiting-bhopal/
Also--Ocimum gratissimum is a plant in the mint family. So you AND your friends were right! : )
Excellent information! Thank you.
Lovely. The bird journal reminds me of Amy Tan’s recent project.
I agree! I think both projects grow out of deep respect and observation of the natural world, and they also become relatable by weaving in so much about both the maker and the subject matter.
What incredible artwork- I love it. Fascinating interview, thank you 😊
Thanks so much for your kind words, Sue. I always love hearing appreciation for Shivani's artwork!
such beautiful birds surround you -- hello from the states - i am wishing you well and would love to order a copy of the book
Thank you for your interest, Marti--I'll make sure Shivani sees this. I don't think the Neighbirdhood book (if that's the one you're referring to--?) is officially published. But she is working on her MFA in illustration now, so it seems likely that there will be many books in her future!
okay perfect! i subscribed to you both --hopefully :)
Beautiful illustrations! And I learned a lot about the wildlife in urban India too. Lovely, lovely post 💚
Thanks so much, Jo!
Shivani's focus on urban ecosystems and her belief in co-existing with wildlife in cities is inspiring. It gives me hope that we can create a harmonious balance between urban development and preserving green spaces. Her work with children's literature as a tool for environmental education is truly commendable.
Thanks, Alexander! I'm always surprised by how much wildlife you can find in cities. And in recent years there's been a lot of interest in making space for even more--both in terms of actual, physical space, and also in terms of educating ourselves and others to be more open to ideas of how that coexistence might manifest itself. Children's literature is absolutely an important part of that!
Great post. I, too, love nature and try to bring it into my mystery writing. I grew up on a farm and the lovely walks in fields, pastures, and timberlands seem to bring something that seeps into my writing and thinking all the time. Thanks for this post and for mentioning your picture book. I'm working on some nature PBs of my own, so I'm looking forward to reading your work and appreciating your art.
Ooh! I love the idea of bringing more nature into your mystery writing. So glad you enjoyed the post!