Khushboo Shah is an ophthalmologist by profession, with a passion for storytelling. Much as she tries to keep the doctor and the writer in her separate, she ends up reading stories in the eyes she examines, and treating patients with generous doses of anecdotes. Both her prose and poetry typically have a sprinkling of humour and introspection.
While she has several anthologies to her credit, this book is her debut as a solo author. She lives in Vadodara, Gujarat, with her daughter, her poems and her puns for company.
She is a published co-author of many anthologies.
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If Animals Could Speak | Dr Khushboo Shah on Compassion, Empathy and Every Life That Matters | OCLF
On 22nd Nov 2025 11.00 AM To 11:40 AM
The session "If Animals Could Speak: Every life clucks, moos, meows and matters" featured Dr Khushboo Shah, an eye surgeon, author and spoken word artist, in a heartwarming conversation with young readers. The session encouraged children to imagine the inner world of animals and understand their emotions, fears and unspoken voices.
Dr Shah introduced characters from her book that portray animals working inside a slaughterhouse, helping children reflect on empathy, pain and the realities of poultry life. She highlighted how small actions such as feeding strays, observing animal behaviour and making mindful food choices can build compassion. The storytelling format kept the young audience fully engaged, with children sharing their experiences and thoughts about pets and animals they meet in daily life.
The session inspired children to see every creature as a life that feels, connects and deserves kindness.