The cultural community of Jackson Heights, New York, recently came together to celebrate a remarkable literary milestone—the launch of Smell of My Words, a poetry collection by seven-year-old author Parama T Pearl. The heartwarming ceremony, held at the Jews Center in Jackson Heights, brought together poets, journalists, writers, teachers, social workers, and cultural personalities to recognize the creativity and achievement of a young writer whose literary journey is just beginning.
Born on January 2, 2019, Parama is a first-grade student at Abigail Adams School in Jamaica, Queens. Her debut collection features 49 poems written by the young author herself, offering readers a glimpse into the imaginative world of childhood, where emotions, dreams, fears, and hopes find expression through words.
The publication of a book at such a young age is an encouraging achievement, demonstrating how children's creativity can flourish when they are given opportunities to express themselves. For Parama, the launch was not simply the unveiling of a book; it was also a celebration of imagination, family support, and the confidence to share her thoughts with a wider audience.
Among the poems in Smell of My Words, “My Fear Is Here” stands out for its reflection on fear, preparation, and the pursuit of dreams. Written in simple language, the poem conveys a message that young readers can readily understand: uncertainty is a part of life, but it need not prevent anyone from moving forward.
The poem reads:
My Fear Is Here
One fear, can be here.
So you have to prepare.
Remember one time?
When your dreams went by?
Now you can tell...
Your wish went well!
Celebrate because this is great!
The verses reflect a child's perspective on overcoming apprehension and finding happiness in achievement. Their straightforward language gives the poem an intimate quality, allowing readers to encounter the world through the eyes of a young writer.
The book's colorful cover reinforces this imaginative spirit. Featuring an illustration of a young girl with twin ponytails sitting at a desk and reading a book labeled “love,” the design is surrounded by pastel-colored clouds and vibrant butterflies. Its playful imagery reflects the curiosity and wonder associated with childhood.
Behind Parama's literary debut is a family whose encouragement has helped make the occasion possible. She is the only daughter of Sejuti Talukder, a schoolteacher, and Pinaki Talukder, who has worked as a benefit specialist at H&R Block for 12 years and also reports for TBN TV in New York.
Her extended family, with relatives in the United States and Bangladesh, also occupies a special place in her life. Her grandmother resides in Dhaka, while her wider family network includes five uncles and numerous relatives whose names appear in the book's dedication. Their inclusion reflects the importance of family relationships and the affection surrounding the young author's journey.
Parama's first-grade teacher, Sahela Sharmin, who taught her for a year, also has reason to take pride in her student's achievement. A teacher's encouragement can play an important role in nurturing a child's confidence, curiosity, and interest in language.
The book-launching ceremony was as colorful and lively as its young guest of honor. Standing beside her mother in front of a festive banner celebrating “Parama T Pearl's 1st Book Publishing Ceremony,” Parama wore an elegant deep-maroon dress with intricate embroidery. Balloons in red, white, blue, and yellow, fresh floral arrangements, and copies of the book added to the celebratory atmosphere.
While invited guests and speakers shared their appreciation of the publication, Parama displayed the unmistakable energy of a seven-year-old. She moved around the venue, played near the gathering, laughed, and smiled enthusiastically. Her carefree behavior brought a charming contrast to the formal speeches, reminding everyone that behind the achievement was still a child enjoying a special day.
The ceremony therefore celebrated more than a published collection. It brought together a community to encourage a young person's creative expression and recognize the possibilities that emerge when children are supported in pursuing their interests.
The message printed on the back cover of Smell of My Words captures the spirit of Parama's debut: “Focus on your dreams, keep going. Nothing is impossible.”
For a seven-year-old, publishing a collection of 49 poems is a significant first step into the literary world. Whether her future leads to further writing or other creative pursuits, this accomplishment will remain an important milestone in her childhood.
Parama T Pearl's story offers an uplifting reminder that creativity has no single starting age. With imagination, encouragement, and the freedom to express themselves, children can discover their voices in unexpected ways.
As family members, educators, and community figures celebrated her first book, the central message was clear: young talent deserves recognition, and every child's imagination deserves room to grow. Through Smell of My Words, Parama has taken her first step toward sharing that imagination with the world.
