Graphic Novelist Nidhi Chanani’s Visit

Nidhi Chanani, author of the magical new graphic novel, Pashmina, gave an entertaining and informative presentation to Synergy students grades 4-6 during a special assembly on Friday, October 20th.

Pashmina is Chanani’s debut graphic novel, a heartwarming tale about Priyanka “Pri” Das, an Indian-American teenage girl who is becoming increasingly impatient with her single mom because she refuses to answer any questions about why she left her Indian homeland or who Priyanka’s father is. One day, Priyanka accidentally discovers magical pashmina (shawl) that helps her to form a plan for what she must do to find the answers she seeks.

Chanani imparted life lessons as well as practical advice for aspiring artists. She shared with the audience her lifelong interest in comics and drawing. She also shared the hard work she put in to become a better artist — not only attending art school, but also committing to create at least one drawing a day for three years. Students saw examples of how Chanani’s artistic skills improved through daily practice.  Chanani also shared practical information about how she creates her art in her studio and how, as a freelance artist, she is able to market and sell her artwork.

As Chanani took questions from the audience, she simultaneously drew a sketch containing the following items suggested by students: a toothbrush, a panda, and a character from her book!

Students who pre-ordered books had a chance to personally meet the author and get their book signed. Synergy students and staff look forward to more exciting visits from author-illustrators.

Thank you to Folio Books for arranging Nidhi Chanani’s visit and donating 10% of pre-order book sales to the Synergy Library!

– Susanne DeRisi, Librarian

This post comes from her library blog, check it out! Synergy Library Blog