Widely recognized for his work in foreign investment, Chris Devonshire-Ellis has ventured into the realm of children’s literature with his book The Optimistic Kingfisher. Published by The Jam Fruit Tree Publications, this engaging collection of stories introduces young readers to the natural beauty of Sri Lanka while encouraging their curiosity and courage to explore the outdoors. Known for his diverse writing career, Chris has previously authored business books, refugee stories, and travel guides, but this marks his first foray into children’s books.
The inspiration for The Optimistic Kingfisher came from an unexpected yet heartwarming source. During a visit from young Russian children at his home in Sri Lanka, Chris began crafting bedtime stories to entertain them. These stories became a nightly tradition among bedtime stories, sparking the idea to expand and publish them during the pandemic. The project was completed with the support of The Jam Fruit Tree Publications, a local publisher that helped transform the stories into a beautifully illustrated book.
Celebrating Sri Lanka’s wildlife in The Optimistic Kingfisher
The book takes readers on a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich natural landscape, featuring animals, birds, sea creatures, and even insects, the vibrant illustrations serving as both an entertaining bedtime read and an introductory natural history guide for children. Chris wanted to address common childhood fears of nature’s creepy crawlers by educating young readers about which insects are harmless and even beneficial and which ones they should approach with caution. This practical, educational angle ensures the book appeals to children and parents alike.
Chris‘s writing style in The Optimistic Kingfisher effectively bridges the gap between adult and child perspectives, incorporating subtle humor and lighthearted moments that resonate with adults as well. The book’s tone and storytelling are reminiscent of Rudyard Kipling’s works, particularly The Jungle Book, with a blend of adventure, wisdom, and affection for the natural world.
A Personal Love Letter to Sri Lanka
For Chris, the book is more than just a collection of stories; it’s a heartfelt tribute to Sri Lanka, its natural beauty, and the children who inspired him. Having lived in Sri Lanka for over a decade, Chris has explored the island extensively, from its lush gardens to its coastal waters. His own home and garden in Unawatuna, redesigned by a gardener who once worked with renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, played a significant role in shaping the stories, as he stated that most of the tales were inspired by actual incidents that took place there.
His book features a titular kingfisher that frequented a jasmine branch overlooking Chris’s swimming pool and made persistent visits despite its lack of fish, earning the moniker “optimistic.” Another story describes a humorous incident where Chris’s dog, Clemmie, mistakenly believed a pond filled with water lilies to be solid ground. These real-life moments add a sense of authentic charm to these stories.
Encouraging a connection with nature
A key theme of The Optimistic Kingfisher is the love and respect for nature. Chris hopes the book will inspire children to overcome their fears of wildlife and embrace the wonders of the natural world. He aims to spark curiosity and encourage children to explore their surroundings safely. By introducing children to the beauty and diversity of the natural world early on, Chris hopes to cultivate a new generation of nature enthusiasts who will grow up to value and protect the environment.
Looking Ahead: More to Come from Chris Devonshire-Ellis
Now partially retired, Chris finds writing for children more rewarding than his previous work in legal and business circles. Buoyed by the positive reception of The Optimistic Kingfisher, he is already considering a sequel. Chris also expressed an interest in exploring other genres of fiction, including books for adult readers in Sri Lanka.
A Book for the Whole Family
The Optimistic Kingfisher stands out not only for its engaging stories but also for its stunning illustrations of animals and nature. It’s a book that parents and children can enjoy together, fostering meaningful conversations about wildlife and the environment. Chris’s love for Sri Lanka and its natural wonders, along with his passion for storytelling, makes this book a truly special addition to children’s literature.
Chris provides straightforward guidance to aspiring writers: “Embrace your inner storyteller and write it.” Through The Optimistic Kingfisher, he has demonstrated how personal experiences and a love for nature can inspire a meaningful and delightful book that resonates with readers of all ages.
