Sheryl Prakash, who has links to Fiji, is encouraging people to value their grandparents, listen to their stories and learn from their experiences while they are still alive, so they do not have regrets later in life.
Speaking to fijivillage News from Malaysia, Prakash says her debut children's picture book, The Curry Leaf Tree, was inspired by her late Nani, who played an important role in keeping her connected to her Indo-Fijian heritage.
Born and raised in New Zealand and now living in Malaysia, Prakash says growing up between different cultures was not always easy, as she often struggled to find a sense of belonging.
She says despite coming from a family with a rich cultural background, she sometimes found it difficult to understand where she fits in.
Prakash says her Nani played an important role in teaching her about her family's traditions, values and cultural identity.
Following her Nani's passing in August 2025, Prakash wanted to honour her memory and preserve the lessons and family history she had passed down.
This inspired her to write The Curry Leaf Tree, which reflects her family's journey from India to Fiji and eventually to New Zealand.
Prakash says the book is more than just a children's story, as it highlights the important role grandparents, particularly grandmothers, play in passing down culture, traditions and family values to younger generations.
She says her experience also reflects the challenges faced by Indo-Fijians growing up outside Fiji, particularly when trying to maintain their cultural identity while adapting to life in another country.
As a first-time independent author, Prakash hopes her book will encourage children and families to appreciate their roots and understand the sacrifices and experiences of previous generations.
She stresses that people should spend time with their grandparents, listen to their stories and learn as much as possible from them while they have the opportunity.
Prakash also acknowledges her husband's support and encouragement in helping her turn what started as an idea in 2022 into her first published book.
