Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I, Pouvani Devi Cudian, aged 26, was born and brought up up in Mauritius. I clinched the National State Scholarship ( Science Side) in 2012 and embarked on Medicine studies in 2013. 5 years after, i started my internship at the local Victoria Hospital where i got the opportunity to rotate in different units. I am passionate about reading, the gym, recently have taken up cooking and simply spending some good time with friends. ‘ Mirror mirror, is that me?’ is my first book, which I have released simultaneously in French language so that it is accessible to a wider audience.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
‘ Mirror mirror, is that me?’ is my first and latest book. I inspired myself from some real life characters, their personalities and behavior, to create my own protagonist, Lisa. I am fond of story books which have a medical touch to them. Trying to use my own experience as a doctor, I have carved a story which is not only fun to read but also gives an insight into and helps one discover some medical illnesses that have been present amongst us since long but are still not talked about.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have often been praised for my ‘lyrical’ style of writing. However, whenever i write, my aim is to always keep it simple and sweet. I love dialogues in books, hence so many conversations in my own book. When i write, i get get lost in the characters and imagine the scenes as if they were happening in front of me. Unusual or not, i am not quite sure, but at least it’s my writing habit.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Dr. Paul Kalanithi’s book ‘ When Breath Becomes Air’ is definitely my favorite. I may be biased by the fact that he was a doctor too, but I am sure that reading his book, really inspired me to write a book of my own. I am currently obsessed with Rupi Kaur’s collection also. Her poems are short but impactful.
What are you working on now?
I am currently preparing to go for my Post Graduate studies, so writing is on hold. Writing is a hobby, so I don’t want to stress about it. Whenever I feel that I am ready to write something more, I will.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have just started advertising my book, so am not very familiar. However from whatever i have read, Awesome Gang, Amazon ads seem promising for promotions. Well, fingers crossed.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing a book is easy, because once the flow comes, it goes on. Nonetheless, the hardest part is continuously going through the book to make sure no error is left before publication. Yet, it’s a wonderful journey.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When you come to the bridge, you’ll cross it. My mother’s forever advice.
What are you reading now?
Well, nothing. I have been so taken up with making the final adjustments of my book that i focused all my attention on it. But I am eager to start reading Home Body by Rupi Kaur.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I just need to inspire myself from a story, a real life event or anything that can click to make me start writing again. Then am sure something great will come out.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
When Breath Becomes Air- Dr Paul Kalanithi
The Sun and her flowers- Rupi Kaur
Out of the maze- Spencer Johnson