On this show, hear from three writers I met during a recent visit to Sri Lanka.

Tyron Devotta, a former journalist is about to publish a book set during World War 2 in Ceylon. He talks about the role of the writer in a time when the audience's reding habits are changing.

Shannel Pinidiya, still a student, talks about the construction of her complex novel, and how she got into historical fiction writer at an early age.

Lal Medawattegedara, senior lecturer at the Open University of Sri Lanka. His book, "When Ghosts Die," was shortlisted for a Gratiaen Award this year.

I also like to promote two organization.

First Story, a London based outfit partners with schools to nurture young writers.

Write The World, based in the US, is an organization I support. My students to participate in their projects.

The Gratiaen Trust organizes workshops for writers and editors, has outreach programs, and holds an annual book awards.

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Spending time in Sri Lanka helped me reconnect with many of my friends and colleagues in advertising, media and journalism. I was fortunate to be able to attend the Gratiaen Awards in June. It was inspiring to see how book publishing and authors have evolved, despite the constant complaints that "nobody reads anymore!"

SHOW NOTES: To Find out more about these:

1. 1. The Gratiaen Awards, Sri Lanka: https://www.gratiaen.com
2. Tyron Devotta - http://www.media360.lk
3. Shannel Pinidiya - "Dear Leo" (2024) Dear Leo - Jam Fruit Tree Publications
4. Lal Medawattegedara - Open University of Sri Lanka.

1. Radio 201 - Angelo Fernando - Radio 201 Podcasts

2. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radio201/id1565037153

3. First Story, UK - FirstStory.org.UK
4. Write The World, US - WriteTheWorld.Org