Local student chosen to illustrate Sri Lankan author’s book

By Ashley Livingston

Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008 | midnight

Suneeta Chakmian has trouble drawing guys — she said they end up looking like mice — so when she had to illustrate a story about a king sick in bed, she drew a nice big canopy bed and bypassed her dilemma altogether.

Suneeta, a Faith Lutheran Junior/Senior High School seventh grader, was chosen by Sri Lankan author Nimal Sedera to illustrate his 36th book, a compilation of international folk stories titled "The Golden Sparrow."

The young illustrator said her mom knew Sedera, had heard about his book and that she put in a good word with the author about her daughter's artistic talents.

Sedera, who was in Sri Lanka for the book's July 17 release, said in a letter that he was so impressed by Suneeta's wonderful sketches and excellent color combinations that he invited her to draw the book's cover, as well.

Ten brightly colored illustrations were done by Suneeta 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.

Aside from pursing art as a hobby since her mom started giving her drawing tips when she was in the first grade, Suneeta is also a writer.

The 12-year-old 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 Suneeta plans to be a dentist when she gets older, she said she'll continue her hobbies on her off time.

"I'll sit and write and hopefully they'll get published," she said.

Ashley Livingston is a reporter for the Home News. She can be reached at 990-8925 or [email protected].