14-year-old author Kuzo Kezo launches two new books in Kohima

KOHIMA — Fourteen-year-old write Kuzo Kezo from Kohima launched two new books, ‘The drug factory’ (a sequel to ‘The school of bullies’) and ‘The trio: Tuition disaster,’ published by PenThrill Publication House, at The Book Room, The Heritage, Kohima on Saturday.

The dedicatory prayer and book release was led by Rev. Kevikhalo Lasuh, senior pastor of Chakhesang Baptist Church, Kohima.

In his speech, Kezo said that he wrote ‘The Drug Factory’ to wrap up the plot from his first book. He shared that the book is about friendship, betrayal and adventure.

‘The trio: Tuition disaster’ is inspired by some novels he used to read at home, and this book is also about friendship and adventure, along with bravery and courage.

“These books were written because I enjoy reading, writing , exploring new ways of writing books and characters and entertaining myself and others as well,” he said.

He shared that his goal in writing the books is not just to entertain readers but also to use them as a means to raise funds for missionaries and help the underprivileged. He believes that his restricted smartphone use has actually helped him discover his creative potential and channel it into his writing.

He added that both manuscripts had been left with an unfinished ending and that he had planned the plots for their next sequels.

Also read: PenThrill Publication House unveils two new books in Dimapur

Rukulu Puro, Assistant Professor of English at Capital College Kohima, commented that ‘The drug factory’ is a suspenseful and thought-provoking sequel that offers a unique perspective on life through the eyes of a young boy. She noted that the book also serves as a wake-up call for adults to address issues they may be unaware of.

Pfokreni Dominic, a teacher from St Mary's Cathedral Higher Secondary School, described Kezo, his student, as a unique and farsighted in life, determined, and hardworking, with a literary future ahead.

Krocha underscores importance of local context

Vishü Rita Krocha, publisher of PenThrill Publication House, recalled that Kuzo Kezo came out with his debut book ‘The school of bullies,’ when he was just 12 years old. Now, two years later, he has followed up two new books.

These books also mark the 108th and 109th publications of PenThrill.

“I would say this is a positive indication of the growth of writing that is evolving in the state. I am especially excited that young children like Kuzo, are continuing to write despite having to juggle with their studies. The kind of commitment that he is showing in writing is an encouragement to the entire writing community of Nagaland,” Krocha said.

Read more: PenThrill's ‘The Story Keeper’ unveiled in Kohima

She shared that when writers submit manuscripts with foreign names and contexts that don't resonate with the Naga experience, she advises them to use local Naga names as far as possible and to use themes that are locally relevant.

“Because it is only then that we can start scripting our own narratives that are rooted in the Naga way of life,” she maintained.