Morung Express News
Kohima | September 27
‘Way Home’ a debut novel by Rüükuonuo Liegise, a class 9 student, was released today by Naga Writer Easterine Kire at Hotel Japfü, Kohima.
Published by PenThrill Publication, 'Way Home' is an inspiring account of John, who lost everybody he loved; and in his journey of self-discovery, meets people who would change his life forever. A story of loss, separation and grief, the book reminds the readers of a world of overflowing love and grace.
Currently studying in standard 9 at G.Rio Higher Secondary School, Liegise enjoys writing and always carries with her a notebook. During the launch, Liegise said, “Whatever we speak can be written, but there are also some words left unsaid. Today is a very remarkable day, maybe not a big achievement but I will always remember this day as the day I started off as a writer. Home is not an address, home is not people but home is a feeling. This book is inspired by the many people I have met in life."
Celebrated Naga Writer Easterine Kire who launched the book expressed positivity with the releasing of a new book stating that 'it’s a season of creativity for Nagas- a season of recording, writing, documenting, song-making'. "This is really a season of creativity for Nagas from a creative God. We have come in the picture a little late but we are there," said Kire. In writing, for Kire, there is no rule. "It’s like maths. You practice and practice and you get better. Most important thing is not to write something in literary format but start by collecting raw materials. That’s what we need to do. And we have to start by recognizing that we have living books of history. Books that walk and talk (elders) maybe they are confined to their beds but they talk," remarked Kire.
Kire also expressed concern on the emerging culture theft in recent years where others are 'taking away our cultural knowledge'. "North East is trending now in terms of everything- fashion, culture, etc. We need to be become owners of our cultural knowledge," stated Kire.
Vishü Rita Krocha, Publisher of PenThrill remakes that at the age of fourteen, Rüükuonuo Liegise has accomplished a great feat by writing a novel 'something that many writers dream of'. Krocha noted that it is extremely rare for children to pursue writing with such vigor, passion and determination.
Krocha viewed that coming across young writers like Rüükuono, has proved to the world that bringing out a novel at a young age is not an impossible task, which will also be an encouragement for the writing community and the future of literature in Nagaland.
"I think it is also important to listen to the voices of children. To get into their worlds and see how they view life and the world because it’s them who will build," Krocha mentioning that the idea and creativity that children share cannot be underestimated. Through Liegise's work, Rita express the hope that, other children will also be inspired to pick up their pens share their stories.
Way Home is priced at Rs. 350 and will be available in leading bookstores.
The highlights of the book launch event included dedicatory prayer by Rev. Shan Kikon, Pastor of Faith Harvest Church Kohima, and a book review by Dina Walling (Author’s English teacher). A special number was presented by Suiyipeule Liegise while acknowledgements were delivered by Heinswading Liegise. The programme was chaired by Mhasiselie Theünuo.
