Sharma: A Trailblazing Author of South Asian Romance and Adaptations
In the landscape of contemporary romance and literary adaptation, Sharma has emerged as a significant voice, blending cultural identity with classic storytelling. Her journey from an academic setting to becoming an award-winning novelist highlights a commitment to representation and the reimagining of traditional narratives.
The Breakthrough: My So-Called Bollywood Life
Sharma's entry into the literary world began uniquely; she wrote her first novel, My So-Called Bollywood Life, as her master's thesis at Wilkes University. Published in 2018, the novel quickly gained critical acclaim.
The work earned a prestigious RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America. This achievement was a historic milestone, as Sharma became the first author of South Asian descent to receive this honor.
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Reimagining the Bard: The "If Shakespeare Were an Auntie" Trilogy
Expanding her portfolio, Sharma developed a trilogy titled "If Shakespeare Were an Auntie," published by HarperCollins. This series consists of three novel adaptations of William Shakespeare's plays, reimagined with South Asian characters.
The Trilogy Titles and Inspirations
- Dating Dr. Dil: Based on The Taming of the Shrew.
- Marriage and Masti: Based on Twelfth Night.
- Tastes Like Shakkar: Based on Much Ado About Nothing.
Sharma's approach to these adaptations was deeply influenced by the writer James Baldwin. She described the process of adapting Shakespeare's works through a South Asian lens as a form of decolonization—the process of challenging and undoing the effects of colonial cultural dominance.
Academic Contributions and Ongoing Studies
Beyond her success as a novelist, Sharma has remained dedicated to education and scholarship. As of 2022, she shared her expertise by teaching a creative writing class at Muhlenberg College.
Her pursuit of higher education continues into 2024, where she is currently working toward a PhD in social justice and English.
Key Facts
- First South Asian author to win a RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America.
- Debut novel, My So-Called Bollywood Life, originated as a master's thesis at Wilkes University.
- Authored the "If Shakespeare Were an Auntie" trilogy published by HarperCollins.
- Views the adaptation of classic Western texts as a method of decolonization.
- Currently pursuing a PhD in English and social justice (as of 2024).
| Book Title | Basis/Inspiration | Publisher/Award |
|---|---|---|
| My So-Called Bollywood Life | Original Novel | RITA Award Winner |
| Dating Dr. Dil | The Taming of the Shrew | HarperCollins |
| Marriage and Masti | Twelfth Night | HarperCollins |
| Tastes Like Shakkar | Much Ado About Nothing | HarperCollins |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Sharma's first published novel?
Her first novel is titled My So-Called Bollywood Life, which was published in 2018 after being written as her master's thesis at Wilkes University.
Why is Sharma's RITA Award significant?
It is significant because Sharma was the first author of South Asian descent to win this award from the Romance Writers of America.
What is the "If Shakespeare Were an Auntie" series?
It is a trilogy of novels published by HarperCollins that adapts the plays of William Shakespeare into stories featuring South Asian characters.
How does Sharma view her Shakespearean adaptations?
Influenced by James Baldwin, Sharma views the act of adapting these plays as a form of decolonization.
What are Sharma's current academic pursuits?
As of 2024, Sharma is working toward a PhD in social justice and English.