Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am Saifan Shaikh. My origins can be traced back to the wonderful state of Goa and I wrote my first book which released this year.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My Book is aptly titled “Pursuits of A Nihilist”. As to what inspired me to write this book was the seemingly endless rut I had found myself in, in 2018. I practically had a lot of free time to revel in my frustration and reflect upon my struggles in this world, which I would conclude to be meaningless, ultimately it all culminated into the Book which is out now for everyone to read.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
None worth mentioning, as much as I would like to categorize myself as unusually unique.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have to mention Yuval Noah Harari and his book Sapiens as the triggering factors that finally pushed me to write. J.K Rowling and Clive Barker are other authors I really appreciate.
What are you working on now?
With my first book published, I finally feel comfortable in putting pen to paper with a collection of short stories in the genre of Horror, some of which I had conjured years ago. I am really excited to bring those stories to my audience.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am fairly new to this, although the modern age has made publishing easier, making your book stand out in a swarm full of thirsty authors seeking attention on social media is really challenging. You can just hope the social media platforms do the job.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you have a story to tell, then stop procrastinating, sit down and write. Don’t worry about the reception. You only have a right over your labor and not the fruit of your labor.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I think “live everyday like it’s your last” is probably the best advice i’ve ever heard, although I find it really difficult to abide by those words.
What are you reading now?
Clive Barker’s Weaveworld. Love it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will be working on a collection of short stories in horror/mystery genre.
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?
The First and the most important would be a guide on how to survive on a deserted island, the other three could be fat collections of classic novels, probably from Dickens, and Leo Tolstoy.
Author Websites and Profiles
Saifan Shaikh Website
Saifan Shaikh Amazon Profile
Saifan Shaikh’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile