Upon A Sleepless Isle (Book Review) by Sayuni Fernando

The description 'hilariously witty yet wistfully sombre' encapsulates Andrew Fidel Fernando's travelogue on Sri Lanka in a way that is hard to surpass. This travelogue offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of Sri Lanka, a country that may seem enigmatic to outsiders but manages to function in its own idiosyncratic way. Meanwhile, for Sri Lankan readers, it provides fresh insights into the delicate interplay between their love and loathing for their homeland, a delicate balancing act that they navigate on a daily basis.

Moreover, despite exploring themes such as the aftermath of war, religious conflicts, strong ethnic connections, wild animals and unpredictable politicians, Fernando manages to avoid portraying Sri Lanka in a stereotypical or romanticized way mainly by skillfully weaving together contemporary and historical perspectives of lives of Sri Lanka's diverse population. Through his empathetic lens, men, women and children from various backgrounds are portrayed in a way that reflects their unique worldviews, locations, and livelihoods. Therefore, Fernando's research is marked by a meticulous approach that yields compelling and unique insights.

During a time of intense scrutiny and reflection on Sri Lanka by both locals and outsiders, this book arrived at a timely moment. This literary work served as a magnifying glass, illuminating the tiny details that spark joy within me about Sri Lanka and rekindled my passion for this place. Amidst a season where the allure of migration beckons to many around me, this book served as a gentle anchor that grounded me in my love for Sri Lanka fortifying my resolve to stay here and continue to call it home.