I was young, new to America, and desperate for privacy. Inside our stuffy New York apartment, spices sizzled on the stove. The radio blared news about a war in Bengal, the land of my ancestors.

Clutching a library book, my journal, a pen, and some Sweet Tarts, I made my getaway — outside to the fire escape. Ahhh! Blue skies, breezes, and a secret place to explore hopes, fears, and dreams. What could be better?

Do you ever feel stuck between cultures? Or maybe you're squeezed between generations. If you're living in the borderlands and need a safe place to vent your feelings, welcome to my virtual fire escape. I'm glad you're here.

You may find out more about my books here. But I also hope you leave inspired to write your own stories, and join the ongoing conversation on my blog.