Motilall, Ashti a.: - Ashti A. Motilall was born and raised in the Midwest, of Guyanese descent. Writing is a passion for her, which began at a very young age. When she was 25 she published her first work, a memoir called "Growing Up Guyanese". One of Ashti's greatest joys in life is to uplift others. She also has a zeal for mentoring youth. She combined both of these efforts when creating the story, "The Adventures of Maru" (her family dog). Through Maru's adventures, she teaches young children how to value themselves and how to have gratitude for others.