An Interview with Silpa Kona
Silpa Kona is a South Asian children’s book author dedicated to empowering young readers through funny, adventurous stories that celebrate curiosity, courage and representation. With a PhD in engineering and a research background that sharpened her love of asking big questions, Silpa now channels that same curiosity into writing imaginative picture books where every kid can see themselves—especially in spaces like the outdoors, where diverse stories are still growing. She lives in Oregon, spending her days hiking, writing, and dreaming up new stories inspired by nature and adventures with her two children.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
The idea for A Monster on My Trail began during a real hike with my kids here in the Pacific Northwest. They’re huge fans of local legends and have always been fascinated by Bigfoot sightings in Oregon. One evening on the trail, they started talking about how they might find Bigfoot and pretty soon their conversation spiraled into scary-slash-funny theories. I realized that those little moments where imagination and anxiety are tangled up together could become a story. One that helps other children see fear as something they can face and maybe even laugh about. I wanted to give kids a way to turn their ‘what if’ worries into adventures.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
Honestly, it came to me pretty quickly. A Monster on My Trail just popped into my head, and I thought, yes, that’s it. It had everything: hiking, suspense and playfulness. I never even made a ‘maybe’ list of titles, which says a lot about how perfectly it fit the story.
Describe your dream book cover.
My dream book cover would feel like you’ve stumbled onto an adventure in progress. It grabs your attention immediately with bold colors, characters in motion and little hidden details that will make the kids and adults alike to feel “I have to see what’s inside.” The way I hope A Monster on My Trail does when it catches a reader’s eye.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
It would be a mix of curious, slightly spooky and just plain fun. There’d be a soundtrack with a bouncy beat for the false alarms and one track that builds into a big reveal. And a background of nature sounds like crickets, wind in the trees and sensory sounds.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
My nightstand looks a little eclectic right now. For research, I’ve re-read Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen to study how they pull off that perfect mix of humor and suspense, and After the Fall by Dan Santat for its emotional payoff. I’ve also been reading a few field guides on Pacific Northwest wildlife. And every night, I end the day with a little creative act: reading A Monster on My Trail aloud to my kids. It started at their request, but it’s become this nightly ritual where I see the book through fresh eyes. It has been both the highest compliment and the best test audience I could ask for.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
Before I started writing children’s books, I earned a PhD in electrical engineering and work in cutting-edge semi-conductor manufacturing. It sounds like a world away from picture books, but both are about problem-solving. One deals with tiny circuits, and the other with big feelings. Something the readers might not know? I only fell in love with hiking, camping and the whole outdoorsy lifestyle after moving to the Pacific Northwest. And that I am also the official snack packer for my family. I even have a badge to prove it!
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
I have my kids to thank for getting me into writing children’s books. Watching their imaginative play made me want to capture that magic on the page. As for influences, I am inspired by authors like Rajani LaRocca and Suma Subramaniam, whose work is both joyful and thought-provoking, blending cultural richness with stories that feel universal.
Where is your favorite place to write?
Definitely my desk. I’ve made it as cozy as possible, with a view of the mountain framed by evergreens. On misty mornings or when the rain streaks the window, it feels like I am already inside a story. It’s the perfect mood for dreaming up adventures and heroes.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Don’t wait for ‘the perfect draft’ before you share your work. Perfection is a moving target and real growth only happens once your words are out in the world. Don’t be afraid of messy drafts as they are a part of the process.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
I hope kids finish A Monster on My Trail feeling braver. Like maybe the thing they were always worried about isn’t really that scary at all. I hope they become a little more curious about the natural world outside their front door. And I hope it sparks conversations between kids and grown-ups about fears, adventures, and the joy of slowing down to notice the little details.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
Atmosphere Press is a selective hybrid publisher founded in 2015 on the principles of Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, Kindness, and Making Your Book Awesome. Our books have won dozens of awards and sold tens of thousands of copies. If you’re interested in learning more, or seeking publication for your own work, please explore the links below.
