Long before the world knew him as Freddie Mercury, he was Farrokh Bulsara—a shy boy at boarding school in India. He missed his family, endured teasing and sometimes doubted himself. But Farrokh loved music. With a countdown to his very first performance, readers watch him battle stage fright, lean on his friends and step up to the piano. As his fingers fly across the keys, fear turns into joy and even his bullies cheer for him. This inspiring picture-book biography captures a defining childhood moment of the boy who dreamed big—and grew up to become Freddie Mercury, a legend.

About the Author: Shyamala Shanmugasundaram writes fiction and non- fiction for all ages. Shyamala is the chief ideator of Kahani Takbak and Kidlit Unscripted, online platforms to promote children’s books and their creators. She is also the recipient of Julie Hedlund’s 12×12 Silver Scholarship (2023) to amplify her stories on a global platform. She lives in Mumbai, India.

About the Illustrator: Pankaj Saikia is an author and illustrator who lives and works in Assam. He has created many picture books, with both words and paint! While drawing his pictures, Pankaj takes inspiration from the people and areas he has grown up in. Apart from picture books, he also loves reading and creating comics and animated stories.