Charlie’s Boys Had to Be Out in 2025

I wanted Charlie’s Boys out this calendar year. The problem? I completed the second draft only early-June, and would not have the book until early to mid 2026 going by the usual publishing cycles.

But I looked at my options. A senior editor at a major publishing house agreed to take it. Only to come back with regrets – his seniors could not find space for it in the calendar. It was mid-July by then, and precious time had been lost.

I was crestfallen. Almost in tears. How will the book come out this year? And then I composed myself, and reached out to the top management of HarperCollins. They heard me out. And said yes, we will do it.

The book should be out mid-November if all goes well.

P.S. Why did I want the book in 2025 itself? Because it marks the 50th year when I got admitted to St. Columba’s School. And Charlie’s Boys is a memoir, and a reflection, of my time in one the greatest educational institutions of India.