09 Mar 2025 | By Kusumanjalee Thilakarathna
Tharusara Perera, a 12-year-old student from Negombo, is launching his debut book, ‘Kalu Makara’ (‘Black Dragon’).
Written at the age of 10, the story follows a dog that turns into a dragon, sparking an exciting adventure. With support from his family, especially his grandfather Saman Athaudahetti, Tharusara refined his work and is now ready to share it with the world.
A Scout and avid reader, Tharusara’s creativity shines through in his writing. His book launch, on Wednesday (12) at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, will also feature works by his mother and grandfather. ‘Kalu Makara’ marks an exciting start to Tharusara’s literary journey.
Here is what Tharusara shared with The Sunday Morning Little Stars:
My name is Tharusara Perera. I am 12 years old and currently in Grade 8. I live in Negombo and study at St. Joseph’s College, Negombo. I am also involved in Scouting.
I have one brother, one sister, and two cousins. I like reading books, especially the ‘Harry Potter’ series.
What do you enjoy learning about in your free time?
I enjoy learning about World War II vehicles. It’s very interesting to know the Russian and German names of these vehicles.
I look up information about such vehicles on Google. I even play a game where I get to drive them and find their weaknesses and details. I also learn about the most famous vehicles from that era.
Can you tell us about your book, ‘Black Dragon’?
I wrote this book when I was 10 years old. At the time, I was practising translating, and my little brain thought it was good. I made a few changes, and now, after working on the first draft and refining it, it’s ready to go to print.
The way I first practised writing was by taking a Sinhala book and translating it into English. When my grandfather saw my work, he told me I was a good translator and helped me improve.
I originally wrote this book in English, and my grandfather helped me translate it into Sinhala. I wrote it just for fun and never thought it would be published, so I was really surprised when my grandfather said it was good enough to be published.
What is your book, ‘Black Dragon,’ about?
It’s about a dog and his owner. One day, the owner wonders: “What if the dog turns into a dragon?” Then, one day, it actually happens, and the adventure continues from there.
One is Nikini. Long ago, my mother’s brother heard a noise and ran out of the house to check. When they checked the drain, they found her. My parents rescued her, and we are going to celebrate her 13th birthday. She has been my childhood best friend.
The second one is Saffie. She is nine months old now. She is bigger than my 12-year-old dog, and she is taller and faster. We got her for my birthday. She looked very grumpy in the advert we saw her in.
When we brought Saffie home, her tail was drooping. Nikini was not happy at all. She stayed at my great-grandfather’s house for two days. Finally, they made friends, but they still fight sometimes.
You said ‘Harry Potter’ is your favourite book to read. Who is your favourite character in it?
My favourite character is Ron Weasley. He is a very good guy, and I like him a lot. He has red hair and often gets into arguments with Hermione. Sometimes his language is a little odd.
I have read six books in the series already, and there’s just one more to go.
Are stories with magic your favourite?
Not exactly, but I do enjoy fantasy-type stories. My favourite movies are ones where a group of people come together and work according to a plan or go on adventures.
You are also involved in Scouting. How long have you been doing it and what has it been like?
I've been Scouting for no longer than three years now, and it’s pretty fun.
Recently, we did a 12 km hike. My leg got a bit hurt from it too. We went around Negombo a lot, exploring small roads and places I didn’t even know existed.
What do you want to do when you grow up?
I’m planning to be a pilot. I think it will be fun.
Are you excited about the book launch?
Yes. I’m inviting my friends, the Principal, and even the Scout masters.
It’s happening on 12 March at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, and will accompany the launch of two more books written by my mother and my grandfather.
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