Q&A
Tell us something interesting about yourself:
I took two quizzes for this. One said Coyote, the other Hedgehog. I’m choosing hedgehogs because they’re adorable — and if anything gets too difficult, they can just roll away.
Current job title:
Marketing Manager.
How would you describe your identity?
South Asian.
Tell us your favourite medium for reading:
I still love the feel of a book in my hands.
Tell us your favourite location for reading:
We have window seats in every room — my favourite spots — perfect for taking breaks to watch the birds, foxes, and the neighbours’ cats.
Book title:
The Language of Flowers.
What inspired your creative process in writing or illustrating your book?
We lived next to the main cemetery in Sri Lanka when my daughter was very young — too young to understand the concept of death. She would often see the funeral processions and ask me why they were carrying white flowers.
At the same time, we were caring for our ageing parents. In trying to explain it all to her, the story began to bloom.
Favourite character or moment from the book – and why?
I think mine would be when Mr Potter speaks about the parade dancers in Sri Lanka. I love that I was able to incorporate something from home.
What themes or messages does your book raise?
Grief. Belonging. Community.
How would you describe your artistic or writing style in three words?
Magical. Heartfelt. Spirited.
Connect
IG: @shyalasmith
