Eight-Year-Old Mangaluru Girl Launches Debut Book at Infant Jesus Shrine
Dateline: Mangaluru, July 16: Eight-year-old Scarlett Rodrigues launched her debut book, The Wonderful World of Scarlett, at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, on Thursday, July 16, coinciding with the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
A student of St Theresa’s School, Mangaluru, Scarlett has completed Class II and entered Class III. She is the daughter of Shreesha and Noel Rodrigues of Kulshekar. Her book is a collection of original stories and poems, reflecting her passion for reading and creative writing.
Scarlett’s love for books began when she was just one year old, as her mother nurtured her imagination by reading to her every day. An avid reader, she enjoys the works of renowned children’s authors including Roald Dahl, Dr. Seuss, Eric Litwin, James Dean, and Julia Donaldson, while also memorising poems by William Wordsworth and Edward Lear. Her interest in reading has helped her excel in the Spell Bee examination and inspired her to become a young author.
The book was developed with the guidance and encouragement of Excel – Institute of Excellence, where her literary talent was nurtured.
Releasing the book, Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, OCD, Director of the Infant Jesus Shrine, praised Scarlett’s achievement as an inspiration for children.
“While many children spend their holidays watching television or scrolling through mobile phones, Scarlett has chosen to read, imagine and write creatively. Her accomplishment is a reminder that a love for reading can shape young minds and unlock extraordinary talents,” he said.
He also highlighted the important role of parents in cultivating creativity by encouraging children to develop reading habits from an early age.
The book release assumed special significance as it formed part of the Shrine’s Mount Carmel celebrations, held under the theme “Our Lady of Mount Carmel: A Mother for the Digital Generation.” Scarlett’s journey from an enthusiastic reader to a published author reflected the celebration’s message of using technology wisely while nurturing imagination, creativity and a lifelong love for learning.
Among those present were Rev. Fr. Jocy Siddakatte, OCD, Editor of Naman Ballok Jesu; Mrs. Shreesha Rodrigues, Scarlett’s mother; and members of the Shrine community, who applauded the young author’s remarkable achievement.
