Author Yesha Gambhir Mirza introduced her debut children’s book, Secret of the Pickled Dream, with an immersive launch at Crowne Plaza, Okhla, transforming an ordinary evening into a celebration of storytelling, traditions, and community.

Published by Simon & Schuster India in collaboration with The Sunflower Seeds, the title marks a milestone as Simon & Schuster’s first children’s book in India. Within days, it has already emerged as an Amazon Bestseller in Hot New Releases, signaling its early connection with young readers and parents alike.

About Secret of the Pickled Dream

The book is the first in the Shanti and Amani series, a six-part collection that blends heritage with imagination. At its center is Amani, a gadget-loving girl who, in a dream, encounters her great-grandmother Shanti. Through the simple yet soulful act of pickle-making, Amani discovers that life’s greatest treasures are not bought but made, shared, and felt.

With this narrative, Mirza bridges traditional Indian wisdom and the curiosity of modern childhood—an intergenerational story that resonates far beyond its pages.

A Book Launch That Felt Like a Story Come Alive

The Delhi book launch captured the spirit of the story itself. Guests walked a red-carpet welcome into a whimsical world of oversized illustrations, a cover-inspired photo booth, and mini fortune martabans carrying secret quotes from the book. A live pickling station became the heart of the celebration, while aam panna mocktails and Indian-flavored chocolate truffles heightened the sensory experience.

In a symbolic gesture, the book was unveiled not by one individual, but by all guests together—underlining its message of shared treasures.

Storytelling and Conversations

The evening featured a reading by Neil Jarial Sharma, celebrated storyteller and founder of Magic of Books, whose narration brought the tale alive with nostalgia.

A spontaneous panel followed, reminding everyone that one does not need to be a literary expert to write a story that connects. The panel included:

• Priyanka Pachpande – illustrator and visual artist.
• Zafrin Chowdhary – Chief of Communications, Advocacy & Partnerships, UNICEF India.
• Preeti Chaturvedi – publishing veteran and founder of The Sunflower Seeds.
• Yesha Gambhir Mirza – author of Secret of the Pickled Dream.

The event drew a diverse guest list, from UNICEF India to international and Indian schools, making it a true community gathering.

A Message from the Author

Reflecting on her vision, Yesha shared:

“This series is my bridge between the wisdom of traditions and the curiosity of today’s children. I want young readers to know that the greatest treasures aren’t bought—they’re made, shared, and felt.”

With its heartfelt storytelling and immersive launch, Secret of the Pickled Dream marks an inspiring new chapter in children’s literature in India, introducing a tale that celebrates heritage while embracing today’s imagination.