The Quest of Zeus' Thunderbolt by Aksh Goel is shortlisted for the 2024 Author of Tomorrow, 11 & Under Category. 

The Quest of Zeus' Thunderbolt: Perseus faces the daunting challenge of battling the fearsome Hydra in a cave. He engages in a fierce struggle against the monstrous creature. Perseus remains resolute, and ultimately triumphs over the Hydra with an extreme blow. He continues his quest to retrieve the thunderbolt from the depths of the Underworld, facing the cunning trickery of Hades along the way. In a chamber guarded by a fierce dragon, Perseus fights valiantly, inching closer to his goal until a new challenger emerges, threatening to thwart his mission. The balance of power between gods and mortals hangs in the balance as Perseus prepares to face this new adversary with all his strength and courage.

---

An Interview with Aksh: 

WNSF: What is your favourite book?

Aksh: My favourite book is Holes by Louis Sachar. This captivating novel follows the story of a young boy named Stanley Yelnats who is sent to a detention centre where the inmates are required to dig holes as punishment. Through a lot of connected storylines and flashbacks, Sachar writes a tale of friendship, justice, and redemption. The character development, complex plot, and thought-provoking themes make Holes a masterpiece that resonates with readers of all ages. I find myself drawn to the depth and intricacy of the storytelling, as well as the great messages about fate, resilience, and the power of friendship. Overall, Holes stands out as an exceptional work of literature that continues to inspire and impact me every time I read it.

WNSF: Who is your favourite author? Or one who has inspired you and why?

Aksh: I hold Rick Riordan in the highest regard as my favourite author due to his exceptional storytelling abilities, and imaginative world-building skills. His diverse range of works, particularly Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, have captivated my interest and sparked my love for literature. Each of his novels showcases an unparalleled level of creativity and originality, making him a standout figure in the literary world.

WNSF: What is your favourite subject at school?

Aksh: My favourite subject is maths due to its logical and systematic approach to solving problems and its application in various fields such as science, technology, and finance. I am drawn to the precision that mathematics demands, as well as the satisfaction of arriving at a definite solution through clear reasoning and calculations. Mathematics provides a framework for understanding the world around us and has ability to solve complex problems through the use of formulas, equations, and algorithms. Overall, mathematics is a subject that not only tests my knowledge to the limit but also inspires me to pursue further knowledge and skills in the field.

WNSF: What does ‘adventure writing’ mean to you? Why did you choose to try your hand at an adventure story?

Aksh: To me, adventure writing means creating a narrative that is filled with excitement, danger, and discovery. It should transport the reader to new and exotic locations, introduce them to intriguing characters, and keep them on the edge of their seat with unexpected twists and turns. By writing an adventure story, I was able to unleash my imagination and take my readers on a thrilling ride through uncharted waters. It allowed me to escape reality for a while and delve into a world of endless possibilities and limitless adventures. In essence, adventure writing is a way for me to explore the depths of my creativity and share my passion for storytelling with others.

WNSF: If you could ask an author anything, what would you want to know?

Aksh: I would want to know about the inspiration behind their writing, their creative process, and any advice they have for aspiring writers. I would also be curious to learn about their personal background and experiences that have influenced their work.

WNSF: Who would you consider one of your heroes and why?

Aksh: My hero is the legendary cricket player Sachin Tendulkar, often referred to as the "Master Blaster”. Sachin Tendulkar has solidified his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time through his remarkable batting skills, leadership qualities, and unwavering dedication to the sport. His numerous records and accomplishments in the game, combined with his humility and sportsmanship, have earned him a special place in the hearts of cricket fans around the world. Sachin Tendulkar's impact on the game surpasses borders and generations, making him a true icon and inspiration to aspiring cricketers everywhere.

WNSF: What is the most adventurous thing you would like to do, or place you would like to visit and why?

Aksh: I would like to go scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. This would be a thrilling and unforgettable experience because the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most stunning and diverse underwater ecosystems in the world. The chance to explore the colourful coral reefs, swim alongside exotic fish and maybe even encounter majestic marine creatures like sharks or dolphins is an opportunity I don't want to miss. The sheer beauty and wonder of the underwater world at the Great Barrier Reef is something that I would love to witness and immerse myself in. It would be a truly unforgettable and exhilarating adventure.

WNSF: Where do you find inspiration for your stories? 

Aksh: I find inspiration for my stories from a variety of sources. Sometimes it comes from personal experiences or observations of the people and world around me. Other times it may stem from reading books, watching movies, or experiencing different cultures. I also draw inspiration from historical events, current events, and even dreams. Ultimately, inspiration can come from anywhere and everywhere, and it's up to me to stay open and receptive to these sources of creativity. For The Quest of Zeus’ Thunderbolt, the Percy Jackson books were my inspiration.

WNSF: If you could time travel, where would you go and why?

Aksh: I would want to visit ancient India because of its rich history, culture, and contributions to the world. I would be fascinated to see how the majestic temples, intricate sculptures, and beautiful artwork were created. Additionally, I would be curious to experience the diverse and vibrant traditions, rituals, and festivals that have been passed down through generations. Ancient India holds a mysterious and enchanting allure that I would love to explore and immerse myself in.

WNSF: What three words would you use to describe your story? 

Aksh: Courageous. Intense. Mythical.