Student chosen to illustrate popular Lankan author’s book

It was a colourful dream come true for Suneeta Chakmian, a 12-year old US High School girl when renowned Sri Lankan author Nimal Sedara chose her to draw the cover of his latest book.

Chakmian, a Faith Lutheran Junior/Senior High School seventh grader, was chosen by Sedera who now resides in the US to illustrate his 36th book, a compilation of international folk stories titled The Golden Sparrow.

Sedera, who flew to Sri Lanka for the book’s July 17 release, said he was so impressed by Chakmian ‘s wonderful sketches and excellent color combinations that he invited her to draw the book’s cover, as well.

Ten brightly coloured illustrations were done by Chakmian for the book in addition to the cover.

She said she was excited to be chosen as Sedera’s illustrator.

“I never thought I would do something that would get published,” she said. The young illustrator said her mother knew Sedera, had heard about his book and that she put in a good word with the author about her daughter’s artistic talents.

Aside from pursing art as a hobby since her mother started giving her drawing tips when she was in the first grade, Chakmian is also a writer. The budding artist said she is currently enjoying writing about things that appeal to people in her age group such as stories about siblings fighting at school.

While Chakmian plans to be a dentist, she said she’ll continue her hobbies on her off time.

“I’ll sit and write and hopefully they’ll get published,” she said.

Las Vegas Sun