Puja Shah’s For My Sister is a stirring debut that weaves together the heartbreak and hope of two sisters forced apart by the harsh realities of life-and the resilience that binds them even across continents. Drawing on her own journey as a poet, advocate, and first-generation American, Shah crafts a narrative that is as much a call to action as it is a testament to the unbreakable bond of sisterhood.

A Story Rooted in Realities

The novel follows sixteen-year-old twins, Amla and Asya, whose lives in a small village outside Mumbai are shattered by their mother’s illness and their father’s abandonment. When their grandparents arrange marriages for them to much older men, the girls’ desperate escape leads them into the heart of India’s largest red-light district, Sonagachi. There, they are separated and forced to survive unimaginable circumstances, clinging to memories, poetry, and the hope of reunion.

Inspired by Advocacy and Experience

Shah’s inspiration for the story grew from her volunteer work with girls’ rights organizations in Uganda and India, as well as her personal experience as a sister. Her research included interviews with survivors of trafficking and child marriage, and her own bond with her sister informed the emotional depth of Amla and Asya’s relationship. Shah’s background in poetry, yoga, and meditation also shapes the novel’s tone, infusing moments of beauty and reflection amid the darkness.

A Voice for the Voiceless

For My Sister does not shy away from the brutal realities of human trafficking, gender violence, and generational poverty. Yet, Shah’s storytelling is ultimately hopeful-highlighting the strength, courage, and unwavering love that can emerge even in the bleakest circumstances. The novel has already won multiple awards and is praised for raising awareness about issues often left in the shadows.

More Than a Novel

Shah’s work is a reminder that fiction can be a powerful tool for empathy and change. She invites readers not just to witness Amla and Asya’s journey, but to reflect on the global challenges faced by millions of girls and women-and to imagine a world where every sister’s story is heard and valued.

If you’re moved by stories of resilience and empowerment, For My Sister is a must-read. Follow The Sunflower Seeds Co. for more inspiring stories and updates on her mission to give voice to the voiceless.