Author: Shehan Karunatilaka
Books
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida | 2022 |
Shehan Karunatilaka is a prominent Sri Lankan author renowned for his inventive storytelling and sharp wit. Born in 1975, Karunatilaka grew up in Colombo and later pursued education in New Zealand. His background in advertising, coupled with a passion for music, has significantly influenced his writing style, blending humor with profound insights into Sri Lankan culture and history.
Karunatilaka first garnered attention with his debut novel, "Chinaman: The Legend of Pradeep Mathew," which won several awards and was praised for its unique narrative structure and exploration of cricket's role in Sri Lankan society. The novel is celebrated for its engaging portrayal of a retired sportswriter's quest to uncover the fate of a forgotten cricket legend.
In addition to writing novels, Karunatilaka has contributed short stories and articles to various international publications. He is known for his ability to address complex themes such as identity, politics, and postcolonialism with humor and empathy. Karunatilaka continues to be an influential voice in contemporary literature, contributing significantly to the global appreciation of Sri Lankan storytelling.