Saturday 10th September 2022 was a red letter day for celebrated author Fr Alfonso Elengikal, who has the unique distinction of being the longest-serving editor of The Teenager Today, an office he held for nearly 20 years, for he released his 5th book titled 'You Can be A Change Maker' at Title Waves in Bandra, amidst friends and well wishers.

Fr Alfonso Elengikal, The Teenager Today, the longest surviving national youth magazine, for nearly 20 years. Presently, he is based at Eluru (Andhra Pradesh) and is fully engaged in the Pauline Biblical Project “A Bible for Every Home,” initiated by Blessed James Alberione, the Founder of the Pauline Family.

‘You Can Be a Change Maker’, by the best-selling author who has four other books, was formally released by Chief Guest, Mrs. Sheila Alexander, Principal, Lilavatibhai Podar High School, Santa Cruz (Mumbai). Mrs Alexander handed over the first copy to Ms Sonal Pinto, Director, Ryan International Group of Institutions, owning over 125 educational institutions across the country and abroad.

Receiving the first copy from the Chief Guest, Ms. Sonal Pinto who has also penned the Foreword to the book said joyfully, "The new book from Fr. Elengikal presents life-changing stories of simple people who have shown grit, determination and extraordinary courage. I am sure ‘You Can Be A Change Maker’ will empower and transform its readers to be the change they want to see around and in the world!'

Fr Elengikal's greatest skill lies in moulding the minds of young people to bring out the best in their personalities. This is evident not only in his latest book, but also in his four books that he has authored to date namely 'You Can Make A Difference' (80,000 copies), 'You Are Destined For The Skies' (60,000 copies), ‘Let The Real You Stand Up!’ (60,000 copies) and 'Discover The Hero Within You' (50,000 copies), published by Better Yourself Books. If one had to do the logistics on the total number of copies sold, it would easily cross a staggering figure of 2.5 lakh copies in English alone. It is no wonder then that two of the above books are also available in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Assamese, Khasi and Italian.        

With content that can satiate a young reader looking for guidance in life, Fr Elengikal’s newly released book is surely to make a mark with not only young readers, but anyone looking at a reading a book filled with inspiring thoughts, good deeds and wise words.

By Verus Ferreira