INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR: Jal Patel
In our quest of finding an interesting book for our book club, we came across the self-help book, ‘The bedside book of life’ published by Hay House India. One of our members read the book in three sittings! It was her idea that we should interview the author. After reading the book, we were happy to connect with Jal Patel, the author of this must-read spiritual book that Diana Cooper, known as the ‘angel lady’ in Britain, has recommended. She says, “Jal Patel has written a virtual encyclopaedia of spirituality encompassing the spiritual laws as well as the laws of life. She introduces angels, masters and many spiritual subjects. An excellent read and a book to treasure and constantly refer to. I recommend it.” We connected with the author to get some more insights on the book and her writing process.
Congratulations on your book! You told us earlier that you never had the opportunity to launch your book?
Yes, unfortunately that’s true. The book was released amidst the pandemic. Hay House released the Kindle version first in June 2020, but the paperback was released much later in October 2020. It’s supposed to be the other way around. Although more people had access to the book earlier on, despite the lockdowns all across the globe, still without a proper launch not many people would be aware of the book. It’s sad that I missed the opportunity to launch my book like most authors do. Plus I was in Tanzania when it was released. So no book signings, no bookstore tours but I hope to do so in the future.
Are you planning to relaunch the book now?
I’m not sure how I would go about it but I deeply believe the book has a destiny of its own. I feel that it’s making its own way around the world. I absolutely believe in this book. My instagram account was hacked recently and I had to restart from scratch. I saw this as a blessing to reintroduce the book into the market. I am focusing on India, as that’s where the book is printed, and hoping that it will spur the interest of readers in other parts of the world. Other than that, I would like to see my books across all major bookstores in India, and then across the world. I would love to meet my readers and speak with them. Would love to do just do the normal author things that authors do such as lit fests and book signings, and meeting other interesting people related to my niche.
We recently read your book. I must be honest here and admit that I was not expecting it to be half as fascinating as I found it to be. I am a fan! What I loved about it is your tone and language, and the subjects you cover. It was gripping and fascinating. Where did you get your ideas from?
Thank you for appreciating it! The book had been churning inside me for some time, but it was only when I found myself in a ‘dark night of the soul’ that I had to sit down and start writing it. In the darkness, I felt like I was reaching out for light. I have written this from my heart and soul.
Are you writing your next book?
Yes, the next book is very much underway. It’s a spiritual parable and I am really excited about this. It’s a book that I write for couple of weeks and then leave it for months. But very soon I think I will sit and complete it. I don’t know what I’m waiting for. It’s a very special book because it’s my first fiction book.
Thank you and we look forward to reading your next book! Thank you for taking the time out to talk to us. For those who would like to connect with the author’s work, can do so on her Instagram handle: thejalshapriyapatel where she regularly posts.