In Conversation with Angel Singh
Berlywool Forest is full of suspense and adventure. What inspired you to create the world and characters of this story?
As a child, I was a huge fan of Enid Blyton’s books. The Adventure series, in particular, inspired me to create my own characters. I have always loved nature and wanted the adventure to unfold in a picturesque countryside setting, complete with a beautiful city and a forest!
What message or theme do you hope readers take away from Berlywool Forest?
I hope readers take away the message that family will always go to great lengths for one another and that, at the end of the day, nothing is more important than cherishing and holding tight to the people you love. Additionally, I hope they are reminded to never lose faith.
The story has some intense moments. Which scene was the most challenging for you to write, and why?
The most challenging scene for me to write was the climax of the final battle in the forest. It included a major plot twist, and the tension needed to feel authentic. Additionally, it had to bring the story to a clear and heartwarming conclusion.
You rewrote this book from your earlier work, Adventure at Flora Forest. How did your approach to storytelling change during the rewrite?
I wrote my earlier work between the ages of 9 and 11. At the time, my writing style was unpolished and inexperienced, which affected the plot and characters. During the rewrite, I focused on developing the characters to make them feel more real and relatable, while also crafting a more engaging and concise plotline.
Starting so young, what has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned about writing?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned about writing is to take it seriously. While it’s important to enjoy the creative process, it’s equally crucial to treat your book or story as a project that requires consistent attention and dedication, with a set timeframe for completion. Additionally, building an audience and connecting with publishers early on is essential.
If you could meet any character from Berlywool Forest in real life, who would it be and why?
I’d love to meet Julianne! Her character is heavily influenced by my own personality, and we share many similarities. I think we’d make great friends. She is the eldest of four siblings and is a kind, strong, and witty individual.
As a high school student, how do you balance your academic responsibilities with writing?
In 9th and 10th grade, while I thoroughly enjoyed writing, my academic performance was always my top priority. During term exams, I often had to set writing aside for months at a time. Most of my writing was done during my free time, primarily in the summer and winter holidays.
Who are some of your favorite authors, and how have they influenced your writing style?
Some of my favorite authors are Enid Blyton, Rick Riordan, and J.R.R. Tolkien. Enid Blyton’s Famous Five and Adventure series have been a major influence on my writing style, especially in this book.
When you’re not writing or reading, what are some of your favorite things to do to relax and have fun?
I love singing and playing classical music on the keyboard. I’m currently learning animation and occasionally enjoy painting and sketching. I also have a keen interest in learning languages, particularly French.
Where can readers find and purchase Berlywool Forest?
Readers can find and purchase Berlywool Forest on Amazon, Google Play, Google Books, Kindle, and the Literatureslight store. It is available in both ebook and paperback formats.
About the author
Angel Singh Tomar is an 11th grade school student, born in New Delhi, India and raised in Gurgaon. She started writing her first book, named Adventures of the Gallant Group: Adventure at Flora Forest in 2017 at age 9, and it was published in 2020. However, as she grew older and reread her book, her perfectionistic nature did not leave her feeling satisfied at all – in fact, it left her so unsatisfied that she rewrote every word and renamed it as Berlywool Forest. She is a bookworm, addicted to realistic fiction and fantasy.
