Carleton Place author shares personal journey and challenges traditions in new novel
Local author and advocate Nadee Fernando-O’Driscoll will be stopping by the Carleton Place Public Library this Saturday to share her debut novel Labyrinth of Dreams with the community she loves, diving into her own personal journey that inspired its contents.
On Oct. Saturday, 18 at 2 p.m, Fernando-O’Driscoll will discuss her book, which explores themes of resilience, self-discovery and social change, and was inspired by the author’s own experiences with overcoming cultural expectations.
“The inspiration for Labyrinth of Dreams came from a true story involving a family closely intertwined with my life,” Fernando-O’Driscoll told Lanarkist. “Writing this novel allowed me to explore their journey, understand their pain, see them as human beings with imperfections and see the impact of old societal biases that forced their decision.”
Though the story is rooted in the author’s native land of Sri Lanka, she says the book’s message is universal. “The inspiration for Labyrinth of Dreams came from a true story involving a family closely intertwined with my life.
“Writing this novel allowed me to explore their journey, understand their pain, see them as human beings with imperfections and see the impact of old societal biases that forced their decision,” she continued. “It helped me grapple with the human cost of archaic traditions and societal pressures that breed discrimination and suffering.”
While the story is grounded in real experiences, it is not a direct account of Fernando-O’Driscoll’s own life.
“My background, growing up in a traditional Sri Lankan society and often challenging norms that didn’t make sense to me, gave me insight into the struggles faced by the family and many others in similar circumstances.”
Born and raised in Sri Lanka, Fernando-O’Driscoll immigrated to Canada in 2004, an experience that she believes shaped her journey as a writer.
“Immigrating to Canada profoundly shaped my perspective and voice,” she told Lanarkist. “The ethos of multicultural Canada has shown that when our differences are embraced in a positive and inclusive manner, genuine progress is possible.”
The author shared that living and working in Carleton Place has also influenced her creative process.
“Oh, beautiful, serene Carleton Place, how could it not inspire me?” she quipped. “This small town and its vibrant people welcomed me and offered a true sense of home. Seeing deer on my walks grounds me, brings me peace, and offers the calm I need after a busy day. The people I’ve met here are warm and genuine, and their kindness continually reminds me why I love calling this place home.”
Fernando-O’Driscoll noted that Carleton Place, like many communities, is evolving in both its demography and its outlook.
“While there is comfort in familiar traditions, Labyrinth of Dreams urges us to reflect on which values genuinely enrich our lives and which ones may hold us back or harm others. I hope readers here will feel empowered to question norms and traditions—especially those that foster discrimination.”
Fernando-O’Driscoll’s author talk is part of the Carleton Place Public Library’s series highlighting local voices and celebrating the power of storytelling in the community. Copies of Labyrinth of Dreams will be available for $20 (cash only) following the event.