Interview with Sejal Badani, Author of The Sun’s Shadow
12 Feb 2025
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Sun’s Shadow?
There were several reasons, but one that stands out is my experience undergoing major heart surgery as a child. During my time in the hospital, spending time with the other young patients made a profound impact on me. Each one of them was a true hero, and their strength and resilience continue to inspire me to this day.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Sun’s Shadow, what would they be?
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson. “Rise Up” by Andra Day. “Unbreakable” by Alicia Keys. “Firework” by Katy Perry.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Literary Fiction and YA. My next book is a YA series so I am definitely loving reading similar genres to what I write. I also love non-fiction – biographies, healing books.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, Educated by Tara Westover, Daring Greatly by Brené Brown, The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley, Weyward by Emilia Hart, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, and Atomic Habits by James Clear.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
When Brian and Justin learn they are brothers and everything else disappears as they shift from friends to family. A foundation of love was already there.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I have a set of beads that I have to have with me when I write. When writer’s block hits, I meditate and then plead 🙂 to the muse for inspiration.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
Fear can destroy your dream; Faith can make it your reality.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That no matter our journey, we each have an opportunity to be our own greatest hero.
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