Konnichiwa Izumi – Adventures in 2040

Having been a writer since he was four years old, Samarth in Grade 4 has recently published his second book: ‘Konnichiwa Izumi – Adventures in 2040’. The book is set in future Tokyo, Japan in the year of 2040, and follows the adventures of Izumi, a relentless adventurer who loves to build robots and loves his dog, Akira. Since this week is PY Book Week, we got in touch with Samarth, who is presenting his book during the event, to learn more about his creation and passion for writing.  

A good writer should also be a good reader and I am really looking forward to PY Book Week and learning more about new books and authors – Samarth, Grade 4 

Being a passionate writer, Samarth has already published a book which he wrote when he was seven years old, ‘The Talking Walking Tree’ – a collection of short stories and poems based on his own experiences. “I write because I want to, not because I have to”, says Samarth, whose obsession with Japan led him to write the book. “I love Japanese food, especially Sushi. But one of my favourite parts about Japan is the blend between modern and old”, explains Samarth, who wants to bring this out in his stories by giving the main character, Izumi, the power to both make robots and attend tea ceremonies. 

The adventures in ‘Konnichiwa Izumi – Adventures in 2040’ ranges from a fight with a mole, a treasure hunt, a tornado building and a tea ceremony. “It is filled with action and adventure”, says Samarth, whose target audience is anyone from seven to 14 years old, and especially for those with a love for Japan, adventures and robots. “Also, those who like to know about new cultures should definitely read the book.” Samarth explains that the illustrator of the book, Ms Tania John, has contributed greatly and that the illustrations are a highlight of the book. 

In the future, Samarth wants to share his passion for reading and writing with others and is planning to conduct reading sessions in a few local government schools every week. “This will give many children a chance to listen to stories.” He also plans to work on another book before he turns 11, as well as producing and completing 100 episodes of his weekly podcast, ‘Kidacity’, within the next five to six months. Being ambitious, Samarth appreciates growing as a person and as a writer. “I will be happy if everyone reads my book and shares their feedback to make me a better writer”, says Samarth, who is looking forward to the PY Book Week and presenting his passion to his peers and teachers in PY where he has learnt new writing and reading skills. 

To take part of and be inspired by Samarth’s creative adventures in Japan, buy ‘Konnichiwa Izumi – Adventures in 2040’ on Amazon.