California writer Sapna Shastri is proud to announce the release of Rise Above, Find the Sunshine: God, Life, Love: Poetry, a heartfelt new collection of more than 500 pages of uplifting poetry.

In a world that can feel heavy and uncertain, Sapna Shastri’s debut book offers exactly what its title promises: a way to rise above challenges and rediscover the light inside. Written with warmth and honesty, the poems explore three big ideas—God, life, and love—and show how they connect to help us heal, grow, and feel joy again.

Sapna, who earned her degree in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside, was inspired by her own spiritual journey, family support, and years of studying meditation and Hindu teachings.

The collection is divided into four sections:

Personal stories of finding yourself through tough times and dance
Poems celebrating faith and the many ways God shows up in our lives
Reflections on life’s beauty, lessons, and the courage to keep going
Loving, gentle verses about all kinds of love—celebration of romance, heartbreak, self-love, family love, and divine love

Readers are already calling it “a hug in book form” and “the perfect pick-me-up when you need it most.”

Rise Above, Find the Sunshine is written in simple, easy-to-read language that speaks straight to the heart. It’s perfect for teens, adults, spiritual seekers, or anyone who just needs a little encouragement.

About the Author

Sapna Shastri is a freelance writer and aspiring blogger based in California. When she’s not writing, she loves dancing, traveling, cooking, reading poetry, and taking long walks in nature. This is her first book.