http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/sierra-leone-tale-memory-of-love-wins-aminatta-forna-the-commonwealth-writers-prize/story-e6frg6nf-1226060326477
Sierra Leone tale 'Memory of Love' wins Aminatta Forna the Commonwealth Writers' Prize
A POWERFUL portrayal of human resistance in war-torn Sierra Leone has taken out this year's Commonwealth Writers' Prize.
Glasgow-born Aminatta Forna on Saturday won Best Book with her novel, Memory of Love, in the 2011 Commonwealth Writers' Prize in Sydney.
According to judges, the book is an "immensely powerful portrayal of human resilience" which "delicately delves into the courageous lives of those haunted by the indelible effects of Sierra Leone's past".
The books highlights the courage of those who have experienced the worst of the embattled country.
It also gives a glimmer of hope and optimism for the West African country.
Forna, who lives in London, grew up in Sierra Leone, west Africa and has been involved in development projects there.
New Zealander Craig Cliff won Best First Book Winner for his work, A Man Melting, which weaves outlandish concepts with everyday incidents across 18 short stories.
Governor-General Quentin Bryce presented the awards at the Sydney Writers' Festival on Saturday evening to mark the 25th year of the literary Prize.
Both winners were chosen among a group of four finalists, representing Australia, the United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa.
Danny Sriskandarajah, Commonwealth Foundation interim director, said the winners represent the best the commonwealth's authors.
"In its 25th year, the Prize embodies the commonwealth at its best," Mr Sriskandarajah said in a statement.
"It unearths the best writing from across 54 countries, promoting dialogue and understanding on an international scale.
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