By Ema Ganivatu
Marilyn Cornelius, a writer with a heart full of stories, has just recently launched her first children’s book, Lani and the Cumquat Adventures.
While the prolific writer has authored or co-authored 40 other books on self-love, trauma and positivity, this is her first children’s book. Like her earlier books, it reflects her vision for how to live and lead in ways that are authentic, resource-efficient, adaptive, empowered and beneficial to all living beings.
“Lani is based on a true story about the bond between my mother and my niece,” she shares, “Mom was the first person to hold her when she was born.”
The book chronicles the special relationship between Marilyn’s mom and her niece. Though the niece lives in Australia now, the bond remains unbreakable.
The book’s themes include love, family, wellness, and the power of food to heal.
“In the book, my niece Lani is part Indo-Fijian and part iTaukei. I wanted a strong theme of intermarriage, of blended the cultures and ethnicities, living harmoniously together as a family,” Cornelius says.
The story has elements of magical realism, with Lani being taken on an adventure by a winged dog to visit her grandparents in Fiji. “It’s a magical journey to reunite with family, and it’s also about reconnecting with the food and traditions that nourish you,” Cornelius reflects.
“Food is so often used as a coping mechanism for stress and trauma, but it should nourish us and be a source of health,” she says. “The cumquats in the book represent a healthier relationship with food. They’re a symbol of love, connection, and healing.”
In the story, Lani decides to become a chef after finishing school, to inspire people to live well by eating directly from nature.
“This book is about much more than just the story. It’s about the importance of food, family, and love in our well-being,” Cornelius says. “We have a bounty of local produce here in Fiji root crops, vegetables, fruits and we have no excuse not to be eating healthy.”
Vidushi and Medhavini Yadav brought the story to life through their vibrant and detailed illustrations, capturing the essence of love, family and nature.
Their artwork beautifully blends magical realism with Fijian landscapes, highlighting the cultural richness and themes of the book.
As for the future, Marilyn remains open to what’s to come. “I never know what book is coming next. They just arrive when the time is right,” she says.
Marilyn hopes the book will encourage young girls and women, especially in the Pacific, to pursue their passions.
“I would say, first, pay attention to what you love. Whether it’s cooking, writing, or something else, pursue the things that make you happy,” she encourages. “If you want to be a writer, start a journal. Write every day. That’s how I started.”
“This book is about the love between my mom and my niece, and I hope it will inspire others to connect with their families, heal, and live healthy, joyful lives,” she says with a smile.
Lani and the Cumquat Adventures is available at Baka Books in Suva.
