How Gullu Became Sweet is here!

The launch of "How Gullu Became Sweet" at the SIUT Children's Hospital on July 9th, 2025

With Dr Adib Rizvi and Dr Sajid Sultan.

With Nusser Sayeed, Saniyah Salman and an excited young patient.

With Nusser, Lila and Saniyah.

At the GoRead.pk office in Korangi.

One of my most meaningful recent collaborations was writing How Gullu Became Sweet for GoRead.pk, a wonderful non-profit run by the dynamic Nusser Sayeed that brings literature to the children of communities in Pakistan who don't always have access to good books or storytelling. The books in the GoRead.pk library spark children's imagination and curiosity while also teaching them the fundamentals of "Tarbia" (character development), "Ehsaas" (compassion) and "Adab" (appreciation of literature). In a joyful twist, this book was launched at one of my most favorite places in Karachi, SIUT's new Children's Hospital, where patients and their caregivers enjoyed a moment of respite as Nusser read her Urdu translation of my book to a rapt audience. The delightful illustrations by artist Naila Ahmed were a hit! 

Please check out GoRead.pk and their beautiful library of books, as well as their mission, volunteer program, and how you can help. If you get a chance, also read Gullu, a story about a spoilt little kitten who loves sweet gulab jamuns and doesn't listen to his parents... Inspired by a family member? Maybe!