Rachel Dias also holds fun interactive reading session for children
Rachel Dias along with her friend, Mark Ardavanis, at her book signing event in Dubai.
PANAJI
Nine-year-old author, Rachel Jasmina Dias, celebrated her first book signing event, marking a milestone in her young literary career. The event took place at Bookends Store in Dubai on February 9.
Despite her young age, Rachel captivated a crowd of eager readers, many of whom were inspired by her determination and creativity.
"It feels so surreal to be here, meeting all of these people who want to read my book ‘Rose Never Gives Up’. I’m so happy people like my story! I’ve always loved writing and making up stories, and I really hope kids will enjoy reading it as much as I loved writing it,” Rachel said with a big smile.
"I just want other kids to know that they can do anything they dream of if they work hard for it."
The young author greeted everyone with a big smile and shared her excitement about seeing so many people interested in her book.
“The book ‘Rose Never Gives Up’ is a story of a girl who wants to give her best in life. In the beginning, she was scared to try new things. But slowly she learns the value of never giving up while learning to swim,” said Rachel.
“You can read the book to younger kids, and older kids can read by themselves, as it teaches kids the spirit to never give up. It gives a message to the kids to open themselves up to new opportunities, which is a useful lesson for everyone, regardless of age. The best lesson from the story is that no one is too small to make a difference and that every action counts.”
Seeing Rachel, her parents were beaming with pride.
“We are so proud of Rachel,” said her mother, Remediana (Remy) Dias. “She’s always been a creative soul, and to see her turn her imagination into a published book is amazing.”
In addition to the book signing, Rachel participated in a fun interactive reading session, where she read the book to an enthusiastic audience of children.
Rachel asked children to share their experiences, when they found a situation tough, but never gave up. Some children drew the character of Rose who never gives up while others coloured a paper with the caption ‘Never Give Up”.
Attendees were given the chance to ask Rachel questions about her book and her writing process, and many walked away with personalised autographs.
Grace Chaoul Karim, the founder of Bookends store, who was also in attendance, praised Rachel’s initiative.
"Rachel is a shining example of the incredible potential young minds have. She’s shown that age doesn’t define talent or creativity."
Rachel expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her journey.
“I’m just getting started,” Rachel said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Who knows what’s next? Maybe another book!”
The young author’s journey has only just begun, and with her passion for storytelling, there’s no telling where her creativity will take her next. Rachel’s next story reading session will be at St Mary’s Cathechism class in Dubai on February 15 at 1.45 pm.
Rachel also set up the Rachel Foundation in May 2023 with a passion to improve the lives of disadvantaged children by providing inspiring book collections to underfunded schools, libraries, and organisations across Goa and other developing countries.
“So far, it has reached out to kids in Mauritius, Vietnam and Goa. It aspires to empower and embolden every last child through a culture of reading. For many of the children it serves, it represents a crucial link to a strong literacy education, and it seeks to help build and nurture support systems for the development of literate minds,” said Remy.
Incidentally, Rachel and her twin brother, Troy, are award-winning swimmers who hail from Margao and presently studying in a British school in Dubai.
Their father, Terrence, played cricket for Goa, while their mother, Remy, was a former teacher at Manovikas School in Margao.
