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Ratings: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Genre: Short Stories / Literary Fiction

Book Review:
The Banana Tree Crisis is a stunning collection of short stories from Isankya Kodithuwakku, the deserving winner of the 2006 Gratiaen Prize. This book marks the arrival of a remarkable new voice in Sri Lankan English literature, a writer whose work is characterized by its extraordinary sensitivity, vivid detail, and deep empathy.

Kodithuwakku's stories span the four corners of Sri Lanka, covering a wide range of characters and social settings. She writes with the authenticity of an insider, never condescending to her subjects but instead capturing their experiences with compassion and insight. Her stories tackle contemporary issues such as childlessness, domestic violence, the impact of war, and class struggles, all with a touching sense of perspective.

The judging panel's praise is well-deserved. The collection is unpredictable and engaging, offering readers a fresh and honest look at Sri Lankan life. Kodithuwakku's journey from a mathematics major to a creative writing M.F.A. candidate at Columbia University is a testament to her passion for storytelling.

This book is highly recommended for anyone who appreciates well-crafted short fiction, Sri Lankan literature, or stories that illuminate the human condition.