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  • Writer's pictureTulika Publishers

Guest post by Shailee: Unveiling the Unsung Heroines

Rediscover the stories of Sita and Helen with author Shailee...


Have you ever heard a tale so epic that it spans across time, cultures and continents? Well, buckle up because we are about to embark on a journey into the realms of two iconic myths in my book My Story, My Voice: Sita and Helen, as together we explore why the stories of its two heroines are more important today than ever before.


Picture this: ancient kingdoms, larger-than-life battles, and a dash of love and intrigue. Thrilling stories that have stood the test of time, been retold through generations, and sparked countless debates. Our stage is set, and the spotlight is on Sita and Helen – the extraordinary women at the centre of these epic stories, whose names are intertwined with war, beauty and destiny. And we lift the layers that have hidden their inner selves away for centuries. For this is not just another retelling; it's a rebellious reimagining that's here to shatter stereotypes and give them the voices they've long deserved.



Think about it. We've all grown up with magical stories and mythological tales that have shaped the way we see the world. But what if I told you that there's more to these stories than meets the eye? That's where this graphic novel swoops in, like a superhero with a cape made of enlightenment. My Story, My Voice isn't just about bringing Sita and Helen back into the spotlight; it's about rewriting the rules of storytelling itself by unearthing the things they might have thought and said, the feelings they might have felt.


You might be wondering why Sita and Helen. Well, these two incredible women may have lived in different times and places, but their stories share some surprising similarities. They were both celebrated for their beauty, revered for their resilience, yet trapped in the webs of patriarchal societies. This graphic novel takes these common threads and weaves them into a tapestry of empowerment that transcends time and culture.


But wait, there's more! We're not here just for a history lesson. We're here to spark conversations, to challenge the status quo, and to ignite a fire within you to question everything you thought you knew about heroines and villains. Sita and Helen are more than just characters; they're mirrors reflecting the struggles and triumphs of women even today.


As we read through this graphic telling, we're not just reading about the past. We're decoding the present, unlocking the mysteries of human behaviour, and unravelling the threads that connect us all. It's like time travel, but without the need for a time machine. Through the stories of Sita and Helen, we're peeling back the layers of societal norms and inviting you to see our world right now through a new lens.



So, why did I choose to tell their stories through a graphic novel? Well, the answer is pretty simple. Graphic novels have been getting some serious love lately, and for good reason. They're not just for small kids any more. Remember those action-packed comic books you used to sneak under your pillow when you were younger? Well, those books have grown up, as have you, and are now tackling some seriously grown-up issues. Our graphic novel isn't just a way to tell a story; it's a fresh take on the norms of traditional storytelling. These vibrant pages for young adults aren't just filled with art; they're meant to be portals to a world where the past and present collide in a burst of colours and emotions.


And don't even get me started on the art here! Prepare to be dazzled by stunning illustrations that leap off the page and into your heart. Priyadarshini Banerjee, our artist extraordinaire, has captured the very essence of rebellion in every stroke of her digital brush. The pages come alive with vibrant colours, intricate details, and a spirit that refuses to be contained.


As you delve into the pages of My Story, My Voice: Sita and Helen, remember this: you're not just reading a story; you're joining a movement. You're embracing the power of art, words, and imagination to challenge the narratives that have shaped our world. These two women, separated by time and space, are the bridges that connect us to our past, our present, and our potential for a future where women's voices are heard, celebrated, and honoured. It's a celebration of sisterhood, a battle cry against injustice, and a tribute to the untamed spirit of the human soul. So, prepare for a journey that will leave you inspired, enlightened, and ready to change the world – one page at a time.




My Story, My Voice: Sita and Helen is Shailee's retelling of the stories of two of mythology's best-known heroines, augmented by Priyadarshini Banerjee's rich, detailed illustrations.


Order your copy here.

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