Pune: Young Author Musfira Shaikh Pens ‘7 Paw-sitive Tales,’ Inspiring Children To Dream Big”
At just seven years old, Musfira Mohammed Ishaque Shaikh has achieved what many only dream of, she has become a published author. Her debut book, “7 Paw-sitive Tales from Earth, Sky and Water”, is a unique collection of stories written with imagination, innocence, and life lessons for children. Designed by Musfira and her mother, the book reflects a perfect blend of creativity and love.
A Childhood Surrounded by Books
Musfira’s love for stories began early. Unlike most children who ask for toys or chocolates, she always asked for storybooks and drawing books. Shopping trips meant she would inevitably be drawn towards the book section. In many ways, reading and writing are part of her DNA.
Her mother, a writer, parenting columnist for Zindagi magazine, and a Mom Coach, has been an inspiring role model. Even before Musfira was born, her mother continued her higher studies, setting an example of perseverance and passion for learning. Her father, a doctor (MD, MSc, and currently pursuing a PhD in medicine) and professor at a medical college, has also provided an academic atmosphere that nurtured her love for knowledge. Growing up in such an environment, Musfira was surrounded by books, discussions, and learning.
Overcoming Challenges with Courage
Despite facing a speech challenge, Musfira never shied away from expression. She took part in speech competitions, storytelling events, and poem recitations, proving her determination and courage. Her journey is a reminder that challenges can be transformed into strengths with persistence and support.
The Beginning of a Writer’s Journey
In Grade 1, Musfira longed for a diary of her own. By Grade 2, she was already scribbling short notes and stories in rough books and on random sheets of paper. Recognizing her passion, her mother wished for proper guidance for her. In a twist of fate, an advertisement for Planet Spark classes appeared on her phone, and soon, Musfira was enrolled in story-writing sessions.
There, she met her mentor, Ms. Harshana Azhar, who guided her in shaping her storytelling skills. For her very first homework, Musfira wrote a story about a rabbit addicted to junk food—a reflection of her playful imagination. Her mother shared it with newspapers, and to their delight, it was published in Kids Age Monthly Newspaper in January 2025. This first success filled her with encouragement and gave her the confidence to pursue writing more seriously.
The Making of Her First Book
Under the mentorship of her teacher and with her mother’s constant encouragement, Musfira began to learn about the elements of storytelling—plot, theme, character, and background. Together, mother and daughter worked on stories that slowly grew into a collection. That collection became her first book, “7 Paw-sitive Tales from Earth, Sky and Water”, a title that celebrates not just animals but also the positivity that Musfira believes stories should bring into the world.
An Inspiration for Young Dreamers
Musfira’s journey is not just about writing a book—it’s about passion, perseverance, and parenting. She proves that age and challenges are no barriers to creativity when children are nurtured in the right environment. Her story also reflects the power of a mother’s support in recognizing and shaping a child’s talent.
As a 7-year-old author with a speech challenge who turned her love of books into a published work, Musfira is already inspiring countless other children—and even adults—to believe in their dreams
