A treasure trove of stories

Hailed as one of 2016’s most anticipated books, ‘What Lies Between Us’ sees Nayomi Munaweera return to Sri Lanka for her second novel.

When the New York Times reviewed ‘Island of a Thousand Mirrors’ – Nayomi Munaweera’s prize-winning debut – they said the novel’s “beating heart” was not so much its characters but Sri Lanka itself. Munaweera’s love for this island stays true in her second, much anticipated novel ‘What Lies Between Us.’

Included in lists of 2016’s most anticipated books from outlets like Buzzfeed, The Millions and Brooklyn Magazine, ‘What Lies Between Us’sees Munaweera return to the land of her birth. “Sri Lanka is endlessly fascinating,” says the author who is currently on a tour to promote her new book. “It has such an endless supply of stories- it’s a treasure trove. I’m honoured to get to explore these stories, both the painful and joyous parts of this place.” In the email interview below, Munaweera talks to the Sunday Times about her new book, her sense of identity, and how she writes the kind of book she would like to read.

Read the interview here