What does it take to live, love, and laugh—even when life gives you every reason not to? Under Ordinary Skies – Stories of Life, Loss & Lasting Hope dares to ask, and answer, through twelve poignant tales of resilience, love, and the human spirit.
Winner of the JK Paper Times of India 'AutHer' Award for Best Manuscript , then titled Alchemy of Love, this collection is a tapestry of what we lose, what we find, and most of all—what stays with us.
From a freedom fighter turned cook haunted by her past, to a mother torn between her dreams and her child’s needs, to a young woman determined to save a dying ecosystem—each story unfolds in the most ordinary of places: kitchens, forests, hospitals, and train stations. Yet, within these everyday spaces lie extraordinary journeys of courage, healing, and connection.
Whether it’s a chess-loving girl challenging a world of black, or a dabba of food that becomes a home, Under Ordinary Skies is a reminder that life’s quietest moments often hold the loudest truths.
Because sometimes, the most ordinary skies hide the most extraordinary stories.
JK Paper and The Times of India joined hands in 2018 to bring to you, India’s most coveted Women 'AutHer' Awards. The awards celebrate the contributions of women authors who have, despite all the biases added value and creativity to this space. The platform acknowledges and awards such women authors so that more and more women take up writing and pen that first story and feel proud of their accomplishment.
JK Paper has always believed in the power of education and creativity to shape a brighter future, especially for young women. With a mission to nurture talent and encourage self-expression, the brand introduced a unique initiative—the JK Paper AutHer Award for Best Manuscript—exclusively for girls aged 14–18. This platform not only recognises budding literary talent but also gives these young voices the confidence to dream big and share their stories with the world.
Now in its third year, the award has consistently delivered on its promise—discovering fresh narratives and turning them into published works through its collaboration with Readomania Publishing. By creating this opportunity, JK Paper reinforces its commitment to enriching lives, fostering empowerment, and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
Visit the website to know more.
About the Author
Tista Hijli is a school student from Ghaziabad, currently juggling textbooks, timetables, and an ever-growing collection of story ideas. She’s studying in the final year of her school and somehow finds time between assignments to dream up fictional worlds filled with love, laughter, and happiness.
When she’s not writing, Tista enjoys practising Bharatnatyam, learning new concepts of biology, and reading endless books.
This is her debut book, winner of the AutHer Awards 2025 in the Best Manuscript category.
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