GENRE: **Diverse, Character Driven, SEL
WORDS: 524
Query:
Dear PB Judges, Editors and Agents,
Thank you very much for your participation in the PB Party 2026. I am delighted to present my 524-word fictional picture book, LUVA STITCHES PRECIOUS MEMORIES TOGETHER, complete with an engaging back matter and suitable for children of ages 4 to 8. My book presents intergenerational, cultural and communal love between my main character Luva and her grandmother, Aji. Luva wants the perfect Jho Bhway feast to celebrate her favorite Aji turning 77 years, 7 months, and 7 days old. Her laughter echoes as she sweeps the floor spotlessly and fills the air with the aroma of curry, just the way her Aji likes. But when a pesky mouse ruins the traditional leaf plates, she has nothing to serve food on for guests. Luva must hurry to set things right to host the best feast for Aji, all while discovering the importance of love and togetherness.
I was inspired to write this story because of my childhood memories of my Aji (grandmother) and this special Newari feast, Jho Bhway. My story shares the festive ambience of Amira’s Photo Day (2021) by Reem Faruqi and Fahmida Azim. It also presents the determination of the main character as in Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea (2021) by Meena Harris and Ana Ramirez Gonzalez.
I enjoy writing stories inspired by my Nepali and Newari heritage and folktales, immigration experiences, and nature. I am PBParty 2025 finalist. In 2024, I was a 2024 PB Rising Stars mentee under the amazing Srividhya Venkat and 2024 Springflingkidlit contest hosted by Kaitlyn Sanchez and Ciara O’Neal’s. In July 2024, my debut children’s book in Nepali language titled ‘School Ko Pahilo Din’ translates to ‘The First Day of School’ was published by Kopila Kitab Publications. I have two more Nepali children’s books under contract with Kathalaya Publications.
I hope that you enjoy reading my story. I am happy to share more manuscripts should you be interested. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Excerpt:
“77 years, 7 months, and 7 days of my life,” said Aji.
“Today’s Jho Bhway feast will be perfect!” exclaimed Luva.
Laughter echoed through the house as Luva prepared for the feast.
Flap, flap! [festival flags flapping]
Crush, crush! [grinding spices]
Swish, swish! [mopping floor]
The aroma of simmering aloo-chon tickled her nose and the sight of crispy jeri made Luva’s mouth water. [little mouse lurks as Luva prepares]
What inspired you to write this story & what do you have in common with it:
My beautiful childhood memories of my Aji (my grandmother) and this traditional Newari feast called Jho Bhway inspired me to write this story. Luva, my main character, loves her grandmother just as I loved mine and is determined to make her grandmother’s milestone day very special. My Aji was popular in our community, and she enjoyed hosting guests. Whenever our family hosted Jho Bhway feast, my Aji made sure things were perfect. I have tried to highlight my Aji’s love for community and Jho Bhway feast in this story.
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