Cllr. Malcolm Byrne is pictured with the author of ‘The Lost Creature’ Senuri Wickramaratne at the book launch in the Gorey Library. Pic: Christy Farrell.
Sinuri Wickramaratne is a new name to remember in the world of children’s literature and her first published illustrated book for children, The Lost Creature’ has already been launched in two countries, Sri Lanka and Ireland, the latter in Gorey.
The Gorey launch took place in the library last Saturday afternoon where Cllr Malcolm Byrne came along and endorsed Sinuri’s work and encouraged her talent for the future.
“For somebody to write a book is very special, but one to be able to write a book at the age of eight and be published at the age of eleven is a big achievement, but not just to have a book launch in one country, but to have a book launch in two countries is a real achievement,” said Cllr Byrne, who added: “We are very lucky to be here with you (Sinuri) today, and your family, and I am very certain this is your first book of many and in years to come we will have a lot more books from Sinuri.”
Sinuri lives in Gorey and is a 6th Class pupil at Loreto School Gorey and she wrote The Lost Creature when she was eight, she is now 11 years old and has three other books waiting for publication.
Barbara Nolan, Library Assistant, read from The Lost Creature and said Sinuri was the youngest author they have had, her book has already been launched in two countries, and she compiled this book (text and illustrations) when she was only eight years old.
“It is a lovely book and the illustrations are brilliant,” added Ms Nolan.
The Lost Creature by Sinuri Wickramaratne, illustrated, 20 pages, is on sale locally with enquiries to Gorey Library or Loreto School Gorey, to where proceeds of sales are being generously donated. Retail €3. ISBN 978-955-30-6958-0.
