Workshop: Once Upon The End, with Shehan Karunatilaka

Queenstown Writers Festival 2026 Every writer has ideas, but how do you turn them into something that’s ready to share with the world? In this full-day workshop, Booker Prize-winning novelist Shehan Karunatilaka explores the realities of writing, sharing practical advice, hard-won lessons and entertaining insights from his own experience. Participants will explore the building blocks of a compelling story, from researching and creating believable worlds to finding distinctive voices and working with editors. Through hands-on exercises and practical techniques, Shehan will help writers approach their projects with fresh ideas and renewed confidence. There’s no pressure to read work aloud or endure embarrassing exercises - just bring an open mind, a willingness to experiment and some stationery. About Shehan Karunatilaka Sri Lankan author Shehan Karunatilaka is best known for The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, which won the 2022 Booker Prize. His earlier novel, Chinaman: The Legend of Pradeep Mathew, received the 2012 Commonwealth Book Prize. His published work also includes a short story collection and five children's books, and his writing has been translated into 36 languages. Beyond fiction, Shehan has contributed writing on sport, music and travel to publications such as The Guardian, Rolling Stone and National Geographic. He also co-wrote 800, the 2023 film about legendary cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan. As writer in residence at the University of Canterbury, he is currently developing several new creative projects. Places available: Limited to 15 participants This workshop is part of the Queenstown Writers Festival, taking place from 5–8 November 2026.