INDI A

SINGAPORE

M A L AY S I A

Copyright © Eesha Sree Pallothu 2022 All Rights Reserved. ISBN 979-8-88684-677-5 This book has been published with all efforts taken to make the material error-free after the consent of the author. However, the author and the publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. While every effort has been made to avoid any mistake or omission, this publication is being sold on the condition and understanding that neither the author nor the publishers or printers would be liable in any manner to any person by reason of any mistake or omission in this publication or for any action taken or omitted to be taken or advice rendered or accepted on the basis of this work. For any defect in printing or binding the publishers will be liable only to replace the defective copy by another copy of this work then available.

Dedication

To my amazing mother, Sai Durga Bhavani Pallothu, for her support throughout my writing journey To my family for their encouragement To my beloved class teacher, Ms. Rozina Evangeline, for motivating me to write a novella To my friend’s mother, Sudha Santosh, for guiding me Last but not least, my favourite pet, my dog Harley for bringing a smile to my face

Contents

Acknowledgments

9

Foreword

11

Author’s Note

15

Preface

17

1. New Beginnings

19

2. A Mysterious Stare

25

3. Rx4

32

4. Trapped

37

5. Grounded

43

6. S.O.S

48

7. A Great Plan

54

8. The Secret Entrance

59

9. The Great Escape

64

10. Run for It!

69

11. Grand Finale

75

Epilogue

83

Author’s Biography

85

7

Acknowledgments

I thank my friend Devayani Nikhil and my mother, Sai Durga Bhavani Pallothu, for helping me by reviewing my novella.

9

Foreword

It has been a pleasure to know Eesha Sree Pallothu as my student for the past three years. I have watched Eesha grow holistically over the past year in grade 5. I have witnessed her love for poetry and writing and her quench for inquisitive findings. Being her homeroom teacher gave me the privilege to witness her development as a writer budding through each stage. She is a pleasant person to talk to and interact especially about genres of writing and story elements. With the turn of every page and chapter of this novella, I found myself recollecting my memories as a child. I should admit that the writer has made her descriptions vivid and as much interesting as possible. As her teacher, I have always loved Eesha doing her wonderful art and craft. No wonder she has designed such imagination and creativity into writing. 11

Foreword

She has been an inspiration to many of her class friends and had motivated them into writing poetry and short stories. I bless her with achieving all her dreams and wishes and surprise us with many stories that are more interesting and poems. Wishes, Ms. Rozina Evangeline, Grade 5A Homeroom teacher

12

Foreword

When I met Eesha for the first time a couple months back, I knew this child has the penchant for words and well, my intuition turned out right! I enjoyed reading Maya & the girls in the mirror. What a gripping tale, and that too, to churn such a marvellous story at this age, indeed, is an achievement. There were moments when I thought this was a book written by an author who at least must be in their early 20’s. The story transformed me to the actual setting of the story, and many a times, I thought I was the silent spectator at a theatre enjoying the show. Well, for anyone who has an appetite for a fun, adventurous read, I highly recommend picking this awe-inspiring book. Wishes, Ms. Sudha Bhat

13

Author’s Note

“Writing is not a hobby. It is an art form” – Eesha Sree Pallothu Writing a book is not an easy task for a first-time author, but my journey has inspired me to keep writing. When I look back, I can see the reflection of my learning and my thoughts throughout the process. It was a memorable experience and a pleasure. I am grateful for the opportunity to become an author and be someone I am proud of.

15

MAYA AND THE GIRLS IN THE MIRROR Maya moved to Canada with her mom. Little did she know that there was an adventure awaiting her! Would her bravery, kindness, and young intellect help her save a life, or would she need an accomplice to help her solve this mystery? Read along to find out!

Price 249