At Sarasavi Book Shop, Sri Lanka’s largest and most beloved book chain, we take pride in fostering a culture of reading and writing. With over 30 years of service, Sarasavi has always been a hub for local and international literature. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing your own book, this guide will offer practical and engaging tips to help you get started on your writing journey.
1. Read More, Write More
Reading is the foundation of great writing. The more you read, especially within your chosen genre, the better your understanding of storytelling, character development, and writing style will be. Explore works by renowned Sri Lankan authors like Shyam Selvadurai (Funny Boy), Yasmine Gooneratne (The Sweet and Sour Summer), and Romesh Gunesekera (Reef) to learn how they weave local culture and global themes into their narratives.
2. Find Your Inspiration
Inspiration is key. It might come from personal experiences, local folklore, or societal issues. Sri Lankan authors often draw from their cultural backgrounds to create unique narratives. For instance, Martin Wickramasinghe’s Madol Doova is a classic novel rooted in Sri Lanka’s rural life, capturing the essence of the island’s culture.
3. Start Small: Begin with Short Stories or Chapters
Don’t feel pressured to write a whole book at once. Start small with short stories or a single chapter. This will give you a chance to hone your skills and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Once you’re comfortable, you can gradually work toward a full manuscript.
4. Create a Writing Routine
Establishing a regular writing schedule will help keep you motivated. Dedicate a set amount of time each day or week to writing, even if it’s just 15–30 minutes a day. Consistency will build momentum and help you improve over time.
5. Don’t Worry About Perfection
Your first draft is just that—a draft. Don’t worry about making it perfect from the start. Focus on getting your ideas down, and leave the editing for later. Many successful writers, including Sri Lankan authors like Gunadasa Amarasekara, emphasize the importance of refining your work through revisions.
6. Develop Compelling Characters
Characters are the heart of your story. Make sure your characters feel real, with strengths, weaknesses, and clear motivations. Sri Lankan authors like Ashok Ferrey in Colpetty People create memorable, relatable characters that resonate with readers by grounding them in the local context.
7. Plot Your Story
Having a clear structure for your story is essential. Outline the key events and how they will unfold in the beginning, middle, and end. This will help keep your narrative focused and engaging.
8. Seek Feedback and Revise
Once you have a draft, share it with friends, fellow writers, or writing groups. Feedback is invaluable in improving your work. Don’t be afraid of criticism; instead, use it to polish and perfect your manuscript.
Writing a book is an exciting challenge, but with patience and persistence, it can also be incredibly rewarding. At Sarasavi Book Shop, we are always here to support you on your writing journey—whether you need books for inspiration, guidance, or simply a quiet space to create. Happy writing!
