The children’s book “Enoski & His Friends”, written by Sashinungla Nathan and aimed at early learners aged 2½ to 5 years, was launched at Aor Coffee, Mokokchung on November 4 by Limalenden Longkumer, Publisher & Proprietor of Mokokchung Times. The story follows a cheerful little dog and his friends as they explore the world, learn to help one another, share, and appreciate the simple joys of life.

Limalenden Longkumer highlighted the importance of introducing children to books and outdoor experiences to reduce excessive screen time.

Speaking as a father, he said, “Children naturally love to read, but it depends on how we introduce them. If we introduce phones, they will gravitate towards screens; if we introduce books, they will gravitate towards reading.” He shared from experience two ways to engage children meaningfully: introducing them to books at an early age and encouraging outdoor activities — farms, jungles, rivers, and villages — where children create lasting memories. They will not remember time spent on phones, but will remember time spent exploring the outdoors.”

Limalenden also commended the author for her contribution to local literature. “There are many books written and published elsewhere, but it is a proud moment for Mokokchung. We have writers from  Ao community, Mokokchung and Nagaland but most writers are based in Kohima or Dimapur, so having writers from Mokokchung is special,” he said.

He emphasized the need for excellence and self-reliance in Mokokchung, noting, “We have to do away with mediocrity. No perfect society exists, but we can aim towards excellence. If a writer, a mother, or anyone else gives their best in their profession and excels in their profession, then we can certainly catch up with others.” Nobody will come to help Mokokchung — it depends on us who are here every day. Supporting one another, as Nathan did by choosing a local venue, is the way forward.”

Addressing the lack of writers in Mokokchung, he remarked, “The absence of writers reflects an intellectual gap. We must write — regardless of the genre — to share our thoughts with the world. While we have many theological writers, more secular and intellectual writers are needed.”

He concluded by wishing Nathan success and praising her as one of the most hardworking young women from Mokokchung Town.

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Speaking at the launch, the author shared that the story follows a cheerful little dog and his friends as they explore the world around them — learning to help one another, share, and see beauty in simple things. She expressed hope that the book would spark joy, laughter, and imagination in every child who reads it.

Nathan explained that she wrote the story with early childhood readers in mind. “I wrote this story not just with my daughter in mind but also for early learners — children who are just discovering how words can tell stories and how stories can teach gentle lessons about life and love,” she said.

Highlighting the motivation behind writing for children, she observed that while many excellent books exist, there is a gap in literature for early childhood written by local authors. “We often read stories by foreign writers, so I thought, why not start something of our own for our children — to let their imagination explore and learn through stories rooted in our context,” she said.

Reflecting on the inspiration for “Enoski & His Friends,” Nathan shared “this story came from the love and relationship I share with my daughter, my firstborn, who made me a mother,” she said. “Every night, she would ask for bedtime stories, and one night, I told her this story. Later, I quickly wrote it down so I wouldn’t forget.”

She added that the names of the characters — Enoski, Elmer, and Daisy — were inspired by real pets belonging to her relatives, and she expressed gratitude for being allowed to use them.

Nathan described the book as being very close to her heart, not only because of the bond it represents but also because it reflects the values she believes children learn best — sharing, adventure, and friendship.

She also shared her aspiration to be known as someone who loves children and hopes to advocate for them in every way she can.

Bendangienla, Miss Mokokchung 2025, delivered a brief message, followed by a dedicatory prayer by Shilula Imchen, Pastor Women, MTBA. The welcome note and hosting of the event were handled by the Emcee.