By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 26 Oct: The book “Why Didn’t You Come Sooner?” by Nobel Peace Laureate and renowned child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi will be released by famous children’s writer Ruskin Bond at the Dehradun Literature Festival to be held in Doon from 27 October.
On this occasion, the two famous Indian personalities known for their work and love for children will also discuss the thought behind this book and its literary creation.
Kailash Satyarthi, the prominent social reformer, stands out as an exceptional leader and an unwavering advocate for the marginalised and voiceless. He is also a writer and a poet. His collection of poems, ‘Chalo Hawaon ka Rukh Modhe’, is among the many books he has penned during his journey to save and protect children worldwide. The latest in the series, Why Didn’t You Come Sooner, is the English translation of ‘Tum Pehle Kyon Nahi Aaye’ and is a compilation of 12 true stories encompassing the lives and turmoil of child labourers. The book gives a first-hand account of child labourers who have been enslaved and made to work in immensely dangerous work conditions in mines, brick kilns, carpet-making units, circuses, beggary, domestic help and farms.
The book puts forth stories of children who have lived a life of unbelievable pain and abuse and have been subjected to trafficking, sexual abuse, and child marriage. ‘Why Didn’t You Come Sooner?’ is more than a compilation of short stories. It is a reminder and warning for the entire world that unless we take these children out of the darkest and scariest corners of society and ensure their safety, we do not deserve to be called modern or progressive. But while it is an emotional rollercoaster for the readers, the book also spells hope in the darkest times and conveys that a little nudge, sincere effort and goodness can do wonders in changing this world and making it a better place for children.
While every story in the book is about a child who experienced unimaginable abuse and pain in their early years, it is also about resilience and hope. These children were eventually rescued by Kailash Satyarthi and his team and given a life brimming with love, hope and respect. The book compels the readers to pause and think if they are doing or being enough for the society they live in.
