Kathmandu, July 5 -- KaruBooks launched Karuna Paneru's third children's book, 'Tihar in Patan', at The Inn Cafe in Patan Dhoka on Saturday.

Having written her first book, 'The Animal Adventure', at the age of seven, Paneru, in her third book, explores themes of inclusivity for women in Nepal's age-old festivals and cultural celebrations.

"I draw from the experiences of older women in my family. Talking to my mother and aunts inspired me to write about growing up in Nepal's patriarchal society," she says.

The book is set in 1970's Patan during Tihar, the author's favourite holiday.

"When we sit down for the festivities, we are expected to sit according to age. But if I have a younger male family member, he will be seated ahead of me. ...