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In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds', I talk with author Kiyash Monsef about his book 'Once There Was', a story that blends mythical creatures and the protagonist Marjan's quest to reconnect with her Iranian heritage solve her father’s mysterious death. Kiyash discusses the importance of mythical creatures in reflecting human traits and the significance of understanding one's cultural heritage. He shares insights into the book’s development and how his Iranian-American identity and the global pandemic influenced its themes of grief, healing, and identity. The episode delves into the nuances of writing for a broad audience, the interplay between personal and cultural narratives, and the timeless appeal of mythical beings across cultures. Additionally, Kiyash touches on the complexities of human nature and the book's exploration of grief and growing up through Marjan’s journey.

00:00 Welcome to Art Heals All Wounds: The Power of Artistic Expression

00:43 Exploring the Realm of Mythical Creatures and Persian Fairy Tales

01:44 Diving into 'Once There Was': A Tale of Heritage and Mythical Beings

03:51 Behind the Scenes with Kiyash Monsef: The Creation of a YA Masterpiece

19:33 The Essence of Mythical Creatures: A Deep Dive into Their Significance

23:39 Navigating the Human Experience: Characters, Grief, and Growth

31:32 The Personal Journey: Reconnecting with Iranian Heritage Through Storytelling

35:32 Where to Find 'Once There Was' and Closing Thoughts

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