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Gucharan Das is an author.
1. Why are you an educator?
I became an author because I thought it would give me a sense of purpose. In my late forties, I asked, “Is this what life is all about?” Surely, there must be more to life than selling Vicks, Olay, Pantene, Tide, and other fine P&G products. I had a typical mid-life crisis (as I described in Chapter 15 in my memoir, Another Sort of Freedom.) Thus, I quit at 50 to become a full-time writer. Luckily, I had been a weekend writer for 25 years and thus had the confidence to take this action.
2. What is your most recent release?
The Dilemma of an Indian Liberal
3. What were your favorite children’s books to read when you were a child?
My favourite children’s book is The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. I like it for its message, which the fox gives to the little prince: “It is only with the heart with which one can see rightly. What is important is invisible to the eye.”
4. What contemporary children’s books do you recommend?
Alas, I do not read children’s books these days and thus I can only recommend The Little Prince.
5. Why is diverse representation in children’s literature important?
Diversity is good because it captures the richness of life on this planet.
6. How can educators use children’s literature to teach empathy, kindness, and tolerance?
The best way to foster empathy, kindness, and tolerance in children is through stories.
7. Where may we find you online?
Website
Twitter