“The Unlikely Friendship: a book About Down Syndrome” conceptualised and illustrated by 15 year old Anaya Jain to be launched by Tara Sharma Saluja On 24th May, 2022, at Title Waves, Bandra West, Mumbai

Mumbai, 18, May, 2022…For the purpose of creating a children's book which is focused on Down syndrome, and therefore raise awareness about it, while sensitizing the future generation about it making sure they would know how to treat people with the same, 15 year old Anaya Jain conceptualised and illustrated The Unlikely Friendship: a book About Down Syndrome”.

The book published by Partridge Publishing and written by Smriti Rathi will be launched by well known actress and TV presenter Tara Sharma Saluja on Tuesday, 24th of May, 2022 at Title Waves, Bandra West Mumbai from 4:00 PM onwards.

“The Unlikely Friendship: A book About Down Syndrome” is a touching story about Aryan, a child with Down syndrome who struggles to fit into his new school. He attempts to make friends and tries out for the football team, but no one accepts him. Little did he know that he would soon form the most unlikely friendship because of his love for football.

An excerpt from the book reads:

“Now I have a few announcements. As you can see, we have three new students joining us. These students are differently abled and have Down syndrome—a genetic disease that causes them to look a bit different from others. I hope I can trust each and every one of you to help make them comfortable in their new school”

This book has a social message, while having different illustrations which helps the reader picture this occurring as well. The biggest take away from the book for the readers especially young children is to be more mindful about how they treat others.

“The Unlikely Friendship: A book About Down Syndrome”

Softcover | 8.5 x 8.5in | 32 pages | ISBN 9781543708578

E-Book | 32 pages | ISBN 9781543708547

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About Anaya Jain

Anaya Jain is a 15-year-old from Mumbai, India. She is currently in the tenth grade, studying in Oberoi International School. A child prodigy with a great level of emotional intelligence. Growing up, art has always been a huge passion of hers. She has always believed in looking at things with a kinder perspective. She is glad to have been able to express that through this book: The Unlikely Friendship: A book about down syndrome, while bringing light to such an important topic. Giving the book an essence of utter innocence and child’s point of view which will enable the readers to connect better with the book.