Maria Marianayagam is the author of the new children's picture book Curry Means More. Her other books include The Amazing Power of Girls. She lives in Alberta, Canada.
Q: What inspired you to write Curry Means More?
A: As a Sri Lankan, curry has been part of my story since birth. Its aromas, colors, and flavors have always meant home, love, and connection to me. But I realized that for many, “curry” is seen as just one dish, when in truth it’s a world of dishes, each with its own unique spices, memories, and meanings.
When I came across a major article that described curry as being made from “just one spice,” it struck me how misunderstood this food still is. I wanted to create a story that celebrates the making of one particular curry dish but also all the stories, people, and ingredients that come together to make it special.
Q: What do you think Geeta Ladi’s illustrations add to the story?
A: Geeta’s artwork took my breath away. She infused every page with warmth, vibrancy, and emotion. You can almost smell the spices and hear the laughter in her illustrations. Her own connection to South Asian cuisine made each spread feel deeply authentic.
Geeta didn’t just illustrate the story—she expanded it. Her art brings the sensory joy of curry to life, making readers want to jump right into the kitchen (or maybe even the book itself!).
Q: The Kirkus Review of the book called it a “clever stew of poetic words spiced up with joyful illustrations.” What do you think of that description?
A: I couldn’t love it more! It perfectly captures the heart of this book. I wanted the text to feel lyrical and alive, and Geeta’s joyful art truly spices it up. I’m so honored that readers and reviewers are feeling that energy.
Q: What do you hope kids take away from the book?
A: I hope kids see that food is never just food—it’s a story, a history, and an expression of love. I want them to be curious about what’s on their plates and proud of the cultures and traditions that make them who they are.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I’m diving into a middle grade novel centered on a Sri Lankan Tamil mind-reader—a story full of mystery and cultural depth. It’s very different from Curry Means More, but it shares that same heartbeat: identity, belonging, and seeing the extraordinary in the everyday.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: I truly believe that stories, like food, have the power to connect us. They can inspire, educate, and build empathy in ways nothing else can. My hope is that this book leaves readers hungry—not just for curry, but for more stories that celebrate who we are and where we come from. Keep reading, keep tasting, and keep discovering.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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