Passang Sherpa‘s memoir, “Behind the Mask,” based on the COVID-19 pandemic, has been selected as a finalist in America’s ‘Best Book Awards.’ The book, written by the New York-based author, was shortlisted in the top four under the ‘Non-Fiction Creative’ category at the 22nd Annual Awards program, sponsored by American Book Fest.
American Book Fest is recognized as one of the world’s largest international book awards programs for mainstream, independent, and self-published works.
This year’s competition saw contributions from hundreds of national and international independent publishers, including major houses such as Penguin Random House, HCI, Simon & Schuster, Hachette UK, Wiley, Rowman & Littlefield, Routledge, Princeton University Press, Oxford University Press, Stanford University Press, The White House Historical Association, Inner Traditions, De Gruyter, She Writes Press, Ideapress Publishing, Post Hill Press, and hundreds of other national and international independent houses. Over 400 winners and finalists were announced across more than 100 categories.
Jeffrey Keen, President and CEO of American Book Fest, said this year’s contest received thousands of entries from authors and publishers around the world, which were then “narrowed down to the final results.”
Keen noted the awards’ impact: “Over our 23-year history, thousands of self-published and indie authors have leveraged the promotional power of their Best Book Award to increase online recognition, enhance their title’s credibility, and garner more attention in the crowded book buying marketplace.”
“I am truly honored to have my book recognized at this international level,” said Passang Sherpa. “This memoir is not only my story—it is the story of our community, our struggles, and our collective strength.”
The Memoir: ‘Behind the Mask’The 449-page memoir, “Behind the Mask,” was written by Passang Sherpa, a New York resident who served actively as a community first responder during the COVID-19 pandemic. The book was published on online platforms last August and is available in paperback and hardcover on platforms like Amazon. Sherpa confirmed that the book is currently available on 55 different online platforms. Before releasing the English version, Sherpa had published its Nepali counterpart, ‘Corona Katha.’
The book presents a vivid, real-time account of New York City during the pandemic, interweaving his personal experiences with the historical context. It powerfully captures the emotional state of a city where the community faced unprecedented challenges.
The memoir is divided into five chapters and highlights the struggle, suffering, and severe impact on daily life, particularly in New York City, the American epicenter of the pandemic. It narrates the battle against the coronavirus outbreak, offering a precise and powerful reflection of the challenges and experiences endured. According to Sherpa, the book also covers social issues and the real lives of people grappling with the effects of the pandemic.
In the book’s foreword, Passang Sherpa recalls his initial efforts: “Those days were tragic and horrifying. Life outside had come to a standstill, and we were confined to our home, moving between rooms as our minds moved at the same slow pace. After fifteen days of isolation, I ventured out to do some shopping. My neighbor didn’t have a vehicle, so I bought groceries for them and delivered them to their door. Despite the long lines and hours spent shopping, I also bought essentials for other COVID victims and delivered them as well. I soon became involved with a group of Nepali expatriates in New York City, working to raise awareness about COVID-19 and provide relief. My days were spent delivering relief materials.”
Peter Gill, who assisted with the editing and translation alongside Mahesh Paudel, wrote in his introductory remarks: “This book is about the people of Jackson Heights—before, during, and after the darkest days of the pandemic—told by one man who could tell this story like no other. It contains the stories of patients and doctors who survived the COVID-19 ward at Elmhurst Hospital, as well as members of other vulnerable communities Passang met in his shop, while delivering aid, or while waiting in line for vaccinations. It also includes Passang’s own personal stories.”
Sherpa, a lyricist and hairstylist who runs ‘Pasang Striking Style’ in Jackson Heights, plunged into service as soon as the pandemic began. He tirelessly worked on the ground to deliver medicine, masks, thermometers, and groceries/essential supplies to the sick and vulnerable. However, his commitment to service extends far beyond the pandemic.
Sherpa views helping others as a fundamental human duty, a principle he lives by without seeking recognition or publicity. His service ranges from providing free haircuts at old age homes to extending a helping hand to individuals struggling from Nepal to America.
In an interview with ‘Khasokhas,’ Sherpa commented on his efforts: “I didn’t get involved in social service by design. Whenever there was a need, I went to the field. Initially, a colleague at my workplace tested positive, so I stayed in self-isolation at home for 10 days. After that, I couldn’t stay indoors—I felt a strong urge to help those in trouble.”
Before his memoir, Sherpa had already released songs, including ‘Sayaun Danda Kaatdai Aaye’ (I Came Crossing Hundreds of Hills). Six of his songs have been released, and nearly half a dozen are either recorded and awaiting release or are currently being recorded, which Sherpa plans to release at an opportune time. The lyricist’s first song, titled ‘Tala Paro Salleri Maathi Namche Gaun,’ was recorded almost 21 years ago and sung by Lakpa Sherpa; it became a very popular hit.
After arriving in America in December 2004, he experienced the struggles faced by immigrants. He worked various jobs before starting a career as a hairstylist. In 2012, he opened ‘Pasang Striking Style’ in Jackson Heights, New York. Today, he is a well-known Nepali hairstylist in New York, and his salon has become a recognized brand. His songs, such as ‘Saajh Dhaleko Thaha Paina’ and ‘Narou Timi,’ are very popular, with ‘Narou Timi‘ garnering over 7 million views on YouTube alone.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
