Bashayer Arif is an Emirati writer, and the author of a wonderful new children’s book - The Secret Life of Dubai’s Street Cats.
Her book about three street cats exploring the city of Dubai is about cats (obviously!) but it’s also a beautiful story of friendship and forgiveness.
We discussed the profound power of storytelling, why empathy is so important, and the danger of seeing the world in black and white.
Bashayer also shared tips for anyone wanting to write a book - and get published - and she talked through her writing process.
I was so touched by Bashayer’s beautiful book, and our conversation around animals and what they have to teach us left me hopeful and happy.
Follow me, and the Good Intentions podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/kellyharvarde/
Find Bashayer Arif here:
https://www.instagram.com/bashayer.arif/
https://www.instagram.com/secretlifeofstreetcats/
Immerse yourself in some of the books we discussed:
Americanah - Chimamanda Ngozi
https://uae.kinokuniya.com/bw/9780007356348
The Namesake - Jhumpa Lahiri
https://uae.kinokuniya.com/bw/9780006551805
Matilda - Roald Dahl
https://uae.kinokuniya.com/bw/9780141365466