Feelings on Paper.
Dialogue with Diary beautifully captures those inner thoughts and feelings that many people find hard to express. The author, Bisma Jatoi, is a dedicated CSS officer currently serving as AC Anti-Smuggling Customs in Karachi. She balances her busy job with her love for writing.
In her talk with Daastan, she explains her love for writing, what inspired Dialogue with Diary, and the special bond she shares with Daastan as her publishing partner.
Bisma Jatoi: The Author Inside the Officer.
Bisma Jatoi is currently serving in Karachi as an AC Anti-Smuggling Customs Officer. While her job is in civil service, writing has been her true passion since she was a child. She shared.
“Writing is my passion. I have been writing since I was 7.”
Over the years, Bisma Jatoi has written for various newspapers & magazines. Bisma also shared the story behind her first book.
“My first book was a compilation of 20 top short stories from South Asia, which included mine as well. It was also through the platform of Daastan back in 2018. Later on, I published two other books in 2020 and 2022.”
Sometimes Bisma finds it difficult to balance her writing because of strict duty hours and the 24/7 nature of her work. Still, writing is her comfort and gives her a creative break from daily stress.
The Dialogue With Diary.
Dialogue with diary is a captivating self-reflection book that takes you on a journey through three years of confessions, self-analysis, and personal thought, giving readers a unique peek into Bisma’s inner thoughts
Talking about her book, Bisma Jatoi said,
“Dialogue with diary is simply the manifestation of all of us. Every person reading it is part of this book because it is a compilation of all the thoughts a human goes through after a long day of aches and bruises. In simple terms, dialogue in a diary is everyone’s book. As Virginia Woolf said, a book of silence, things that people can’t say but feel”.
In this philosophical self-reflection book, she explores the seven realms of the human psyche, touching on themes like love and loss, death and deception, art and literature, and bridges and boundaries.
Balancing CSS Duties with a Passion for Writing.
We asked Bisma how she balances her official duties with writing and what inspired her to become an author. She replied.
“As I said earlier, writing is my hobby and passion. I use it as a way to relax after long and difficult field duties. Also, my family has a history of avid readers and creative writers, which pushed me in this direction as well.””
How Daastan Supported Bisma’s Author Journey.
“Dialogue with diary” is published by Daastan, Pakistan’s leading publishing platform, dedicated to supporting national & international authors.
Bisma’s Journey & Experience with Daastan In Her Own Words.
In her Interview, she shared.
“Daastan was the very first platform that introduced me to the world of publishing. It was through Daastan that I participated in a South Asian short story writing contest that landed me in the top 10 writers. So it has more of a sentimental value for me. Moreover, this place gives everyone quite an equitable space for their creative work.”
She added.
“I would say Daastan is a truly 21st-century publishing mindset, unlike our old school publishers. Every writer is different, and there’s no fixed genre that qualifies for publishing. In that sense, Daastan has always been home for me.”
Lessons From “Dialogue With Diary.”
When we asked Bisma about the lessons readers can take from Dialogue with Diary, she answered.
“ It’s a refuge read. Come to it when you want home in words and solace in sentences. It is not a compulsive read but a need-based read, and I believe all of us need that comfort and warmth of words”.
Bisma Jatoi’s Message For Readers.
“I would request everyone reading my book to play their part in upholding and preserving the tradition of book reading and book writing. Never let go of this art because it’s the basis of this world as well. Humanity and civilizations have survived because of holy scriptures. They have flourished because they wrote and they read. Therefore, let words be the magical guide as always.”
Investing in a new writer is always a risk, but Daastan took that leap of faith and showed me “Ek Kiran Andheron Mein” and gave me a “Shanakht” as a writer.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunities and guidance Daastan provided me, from encouraging to mentoring and publishing. For me it’s more than just a platform—it’s a place where new writers find their voice and recognition. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who wishes to begin or enrich their writing journey.
Their team is super supportive and professional. They walked me through every step of the process, from editing to printing, and even helped me with marketing. I've heard amazing things about their work, and I'm not surprised - they're clearly passionate about what they do.
What I love about Daastan is their inclusive approach. They're all about empowering emerging writers, and it shows in the quality of their publications. I've recommended them to friends and fellow writers, and I'll continue to sing their praises!
If you're thinking of publishing your work, look no further. Daastan is the way to go!
I have worked with many publishers in Pakistan, of which Daastan tops among independent publishers on account of transparency, quality and earlier response.
Their publishing process was exceptionally smooth and reassuring. After I registered, Narmeen, their consultant and editor, handled my manuscript with remarkable professionalism, guiding me through every stage with clarity and patience. With their support, I successfully published two books: Love, Lucknow aur Lahore, which received immense appreciation, and a short story titled Gol Roti.
What truly elevates Dastaan is the authenticity of their team. Ommar, Narmeen, and every member of their staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely invested in my growth as a writer. Their encouragement turned what could have been a daunting experience into an inspiring milestone in my creative journey.
As a first-time author venturing into the literary world with both excitement and hesitation, I could not have found a better publishing partner than Daastan Pvt Ltd. Under the thoughtful leadership of Syed Omar Amer, the team at Daastan was unwaveringly supportive, responsive, and professional, guiding me with care and insight through every step of the publishing process. Their facilitation turned what could have been an intimidating journey into one marked by encouragement and trust.
The quality of the finished product speaks for itself - readers and recipients of my books consistently comment on the exceptional standard of printing and presentation, especially preservation of the design colours. The books look and feel beautiful in the hand, which has enhanced both their reach and reception. For any author, whether stepping into print for the first time or seasoned in the craft, I wholeheartedly recommend Daastan as a go-to publisher and printer. They are capable, creative, and above all, committed to the stories their authors want to tell. I am truly delighted that I found my way to them.
Dr Haroon Awan
