Zenia Wadhwani is the author of the new children's picture book Fly in the Chai. Her other books include Once Upon a Sari. She lives in Toronto.
Q: What inspired you to write Fly in the Chai?
A: Fly in the Chai exists entirely because of my daughter. One summer afternoon, a few years ago now, a couple of flies that found their way into the house when I was making chai. In a completely offhand, playful moment, my daughter said, “Don’t let a fly get into the chai.”
The phrase immediately stopped me in my tracks - I knew right then that it was a book title, even though I had no idea yet what the story would be. That simple, spontaneous comment sparked my imagination and created this super fun book.
More than just the origin of a title, it’s a reminder of how children get us to see magic and possibility in everyday moments. There’s no question that my daughter is my muse; her curiosity, humour, and way of noticing the small things continue to inspire my writing.
Q: Why do you think Chaaya Prabhat’s illustrations add to the story?
A: Chaaya Prabhat’s illustrations add so much depth and joy to the story. She is an incredibly talented illustrator whose work I have admired for a long time - I’m a huge fan and have a few of her other books. Her colourful, playful style was exactly what Fly in the Chai needed to truly come alive on the page.
Beyond that, she has a wonderful eye for detail and a deep understanding of the cultural nuances that are woven into the story. Those thoughtful touches enrich the book in ways words alone couldn’t.
I’m extremely grateful that she agreed to illustrate the book; her artwork elevates the story and makes it a much more vibrant and authentic experience for readers.
Q: Did you know how the story would end before you started writing it, or did you make many changes along the way?
A: I didn’t know how the story would end when I first started writing it. In fact, I can’t even recall exactly how the draft I sent to my agents originally ended. Like many stories, Fly in the Chai evolved as it was being written.
One of my agents played a key role in helping me think through possible endings, talking with me about what felt most satisfying and true to the heart of the story. That collaborative process was invaluable and helped shape the ending into what it ultimately became.
Q: What do you hope kids take away from the book?
A: More than anything, I hope kids laugh and genuinely enjoy the book. My biggest wish is that Fly in the Chai becomes one of those stories they ask their parents or caregivers to read with them over and over again.
If it brings joy, sparks giggles, and creates a shared moment of connection at storytime, then it has done exactly what I hoped it would do.
Q: What are you working now?
A: At the moment, I’m working on a handful of new picture book ideas and drafts. I’m enjoying the early stages - experimenting, revising, and letting the stories reveal themselves slowly. It’s that in-between space where anything still feels possible.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: There will be some fun activities for kids coming out shortly on my website: zeniawadhwani.com.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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