At Dal talk, The Boat People author opens up about capturing the refugee experience through fiction

Author Sharon Bala visited Dalhousie earlier this month where she shared insights into the creative genesis of her acclaimed 2018 book, The Boat People — a debut novel that delves into the complexities and heartbreak of the global refugee crises.

Inspired by true events surrounding the 2010 arrival of 492 Tamils from Sri Lanka on the cargo ship MV Sun in British Columbia, The Boat People is a compelling and essential tale for our times, alternating between northern Sri Lanka and contentious refugee hearings in Vancouver.

Bala’s novel, chosen as the Dal Reads 2023-2024 title selection, intricately weaves together multiple perspectives to explore themes of displacement, asylum, identity, and the refugee experience.

The author talk, hosted by Dal Libraries on February 8 in the Wallace McCain Learning Commons, attracted a full room for an evening of insightful discussion and a celebration of literature.

“I had such a wonderful time,” said Bala after the event. “The questions and conversation were really fantastic and the group who were present were such a delight.”

Bala's presence enriched the event, allowing attendees to delve into the complexities of The Boat People and engage directly with the author. Bala read excerpts from the book and then Dr. Vanessa Lent, a member of the Dal Reads Advisory Committee, moderated the conversation, exploring various themes and questions inspired by Bala's novel.

What it means to belong

The discussion delved into the novel's exploration of identity, belonging, justice, and empathy. Bala shared insights into her decision-making process, research methods, and the challenges of portraying the experiences of refugees fleeing conflict and persecution. Perceptions and assumptions of the "model migrant" sparked further discussion, prompting reflections on the stories we tell ourselves about our colonial history and the multiple negotiations of what it means to belong.

The event offered attendees valuable insights into the characters and their journeys, as well as the writer’s creative methods. Bala shared her experiences in editing and shaping the manuscript, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of her writing process and the broader literary landscape.

Bala’s book stands as the latest addition in the esteemed Dal Reads lineup. Established in 2009, Dal Reads aims to foster a shared love of literature within the Dal community, offering a common intellectual experience that transcends disciplinary boundaries. 

Michael Vandenburg, dean of Dal Libraries, spoke at the event about the rigorous selection process for Dal Reads titles, emphasizing the criteria of generating discussion, appealing to a broad readership, and showcasing Canadian and local authors. Previous selections, including Desmond Cole’s The Skin We’re In, Francesca Ekwuyasi’s Butter Honey Pig Bread, and Cherie Dimaline’s The Marrow Thieves, left a lasting impact on readers. 

Bala stayed after the formal discussion to sign books and chat with attendees, many of whom likely left with a renewed appreciation for the power of literature to foster empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue.

Find out how to join the Dal Reads experience below
 

• Free copies of the book are available at Dalhousie Libraries — look for our book stations to grab your copy.
  
  
• eBook and audiobook copies are available by searching Novanet or the Libby app. To borrow materials, log in with your Dalhousie NetID and password. Get more information and guidance about borrowing eBooks.