Renowned author Kamakshi P. Murti brings to readers a heartwarming and poignant tale in her latest book, “Yasemin and Nirmala: A Tale of Two Teens” published by Leadstart. This captivating novel explores the lives of two remarkable teenage girls as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, immigration, and disabilities, all while discovering the power of friendship and self-discovery.
In a world that often feels unforgiving, Yasemin and Nirmala stand out as extraordinary individuals who refuse to let their circumstances define them. Both facing their own unique struggles, Yasemin, who lost her arm in a tragic car accident, and Nirmala, who was born with cerebral palsy, find solace and strength in each other’s company.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the upcoming end-of-year performance, “Seussical the Musical.” Fueled by their shared desire to be part of the performance, Yasemin and Nirmala are gripped by fear of rejection and ridicule. However, as their friendship deepens, they embark on a transformative journey that unveils their untapped potential and emboldens them to confront their fears head-on. Through their unwavering bond, they come to realize that together, they are unstoppable.
“Yasemin and Nirmala: A Tale of Two Teens” is not just a story about two young girls. It is a reflection of the challenges faced by teenagers in today’s diverse immigrant societies. The book introduces readers to a cast of characters with diverse perspectives, mirroring the complex path to adulthood. It conveys the message that while everyone is born with differences, it is our dreams and aspirations that bind us together.
Kamakshi P. Murti, a retired professor of German Studies, has a rich literary background that spans both fiction and non-fiction genres. Her previous works include children’s books, murder mysteries, and scholarly writings focused on multicultural issues. Murti’s expertise and insight into human experiences shine through in “Yasemin and Nirmala,” as she delves deep into the emotional landscapes of her characters.
The author’s remarkable literary journey includes the publication of “LALLI’S WINDOW,” “MURDERS MOST MATRONLY,” “MURDERS IN THE IVORY TOWER,” and the collection of short stories “BANDILANKA’S FORGOTTEN LIVES.” Murti’s works have garnered recognition and awards, highlighting her unique ability to captivate readers across various genres.
As a member of prestigious organizations such as the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA), Murti is dedicated to fostering diverse voices and addressing relevant societal issues through her writing.
Currently, Kamakshi P. Murti is passionately working on the next installment in the Leela/Meena murder mystery series, tentatively titled “MURDERS MOST TRANS-GRESSIVE.” This upcoming work aims to shed light on the alarming murders of transgender women in India, further exemplifying Murti’s commitment to exploring critical societal themes through her engaging narratives.
“Yasemin and Nirmala: A Tale of Two Teens” is now available for purchase at leading bookstores and online retailers.