As a child, I would tug on my mother’s arm at classical art exhibits, longing to know more. Tell me the real story behind this one, I would plead. She would smile and say, why don’t you tell me instead?

My parents, both practical Sri Lankan-American scientists, quickly understood that I would not follow in their footsteps. I was too taken by the dazzling fairy tales and dark dystopian dreams — that exquisite fusion of fantasy and reality.

By age eleven, my penchant for design emerged as I illustrated potential future book covers. Even then, I knew the write words paired with the ideal imagery held a unique power. Now I hope to harness that magic with you.