Pune Girl, Just 7, Becomes Published Author with ‘Paw-sitive Tales’

Musfira Mohammed Ishaque Shaikh
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Pune, 23rd August 2025: At an age when most children are still discovering picture books, Musfira Mohammed Ishaque Shaikh, a seven-year-old with roots in Pune, has already become a published author. Her debut book, “7 Paw-sitive Tales from Earth, Sky and Water,” is a heartwarming collection of stories filled with imagination, innocence, and meaningful life lessons for children. Designed by Musfira along with her mother, the book is a true reflection of creativity nurtured with love.

A Childhood Surrounded by Books
Musfira’s journey into writing began early. Unlike most children who ask for toys or chocolates, she always gravitated towards storybooks and drawing books. Shopping trips almost always ended with her choosing new books to read. With both her parents being academically inclined—her mother a writer, columnist, and Mom Coach, and her father a doctor and medical professor pursuing a PhD—Musfira grew up in a home filled with books, discussions, and a love for learning.

Overcoming Challenges with Courage
What makes her achievement even more remarkable is that Musfira faced a speech challenge from a young age. Instead of letting it hold her back, she participated in speech competitions, storytelling events, and poem recitations, turning her challenges into strengths. Her courage and persistence stand as an example to many children and parents alike.

From Scribbles to Stories
Her writing journey formally began in Grade 1, when she longed for a diary of her own. By Grade 2, she was already scribbling stories and notes on rough sheets of paper. Her turning point came when her mother came across Planet Spark classes and enrolled her in story-writing sessions. There, Musfira found a mentor in Harshana Azhar, who helped her shape her raw imagination into structured stories.

Her very first assignment—about a rabbit addicted to junk food—was published in Kids Age Monthly Newspaper in January 2025, giving her an early taste of recognition. The small but significant achievement encouraged her to dream bigger.

The Birth of a Book
With continued guidance from her mentor and unwavering support from her mother, Musfira worked on developing a series of stories. Together, they shaped characters, plots, and themes that eventually grew into her debut book, “7 Paw-sitive Tales from Earth, Sky and Water.” The stories celebrate animals and nature while spreading positive values that Musfira believes the world needs.

Inspiring Young Dreamers
Today, Musfira is more than just a young author—she is an inspiration. Her story is a testament to how passion, perseverance, and the right environment can help children break barriers. For parents, her journey also highlights the importance of encouragement and guidance in helping children discover their unique strengths.

Speaking about her daughter’s journey, her mother says that writing this book was as much about nurturing Musfira’s creativity as it was about building resilience and confidence.

At just seven, Musfira has shown that age is no limit to creativity. Her story is already inspiring other children—and adults too—to follow their passions without fear.

Her debut book is now available on multiple platforms including Amazon, Flipkart, Notion Press, Kindle, Kobo, Walmart, Bokus, iBooks, and Google Play Books.

Currently a student at Markaz Public School, Kaithapoyyil in Calicut, Musfira traces her roots to Pune, Maharashtra, where her journey of books and dreams first began.