Local Business Shoutout: Surreal Writers

It is hard to imagine that I have known Aidah Ahmad Syarif since I was 10 years old. That is like 2-3 decades ago or rather a million years ago. I remembered discussing books and life with her throughout our primary and secondary school years. I was always in awe of her thoughts and views on everything.

Having released 4 poetry books under Surreal Writers, Aidah is one of the local writers to look out for. It is time to interview my childhood friend for this month's local business shoutout!

Hi Aidah, can share with us a little bit of yourself?

I am just a next door person who adores books, writing ,nature, chocolates and cycling.

Aidah Ahmad Syarif and her husband

What made you start Surreal Writers?

The notion of having your own book brand is both surreal and magical.

How many books have you written and what is special about each of them?

I have written 4 English poetry books. Each book is unique in its own way. It tells the journey of two writers based on their own personal experiences.

Life Journey, the first poetry book

Photo credit: Surreal Writers

What keeps you inspired throughout the writing process?

Writing helps me to pour out my thoughts and feelings but it is also healing.

How did you find time to write?

I don't have that really ME time to sit down and write. Usually as and when the words come to me, I will just jot down via my mobile notes app.

Poem from Travel Journey, the second book

Photo Credit: Surreal Writers

What is the easiest and the hardest thing about self publishing?

You have this kind of satisfaction to be in charged from A To Z except for printing. The hardest part perhaps is the marketing whereby you have to explore various options to get the books reach to the right audience.

Who are your favourite authors or writers? Which books will you read again and again?

Some of the favourites:

Ghosts Don't Eat Potato Chips Written Debbie Dadey and Marcia Jones

Harry potters Written by JK Rowling

Red Sky in the morning Written by Elizabeth Laird

Bully Written by Yvonne Coppard

Poem from Hope Journey released in 2021

Photo Credit: Surreal Writers

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

Never belittle yourself. Follow your dreams. Ignore the noise.

What can we look forward from you or Surreal Writers in the future?

We will tell you once the right moment has come!

The latest book, Love Journey

Photo Credit: Surreal Writers

Congratulations Aidah and Surreal Writers on your latest release, Love Journey! Do follow her at Surreal Writers!