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Author Interview
Q: What was your inspiration for Kai the Dancing Butterfly? Why
butterflies?
A: Taiwan has over 400 species of butterflies, 50 of which
are endemic to the island! Taiwan is also home to the beautiful purple crow
butterfly population, which makes up one of the planet's largest butterfly
migration overwintering congregation. My children and I adore butterflies, so I
was inspired to write a children's book about this unique butterfly species
from Taiwan, where I grew up as a child.
Q: There are many Taiwanese locations in Kai the Dancing
Butterfly. Which ones are favorites?
A: Sun Moon Lake is one, because of the very fond memories I
have from boating and vacationing there. Another favorite spot is Yehliu
Geopark, where you can find sandstone rock formations sculpted naturally by the
wind and sea. I still remember my grandfather taking us there.
Q: What was your inspiration for the emphasis on Taiwanese
Indigenous tribal clothing in the illustrations?
A: I collaborated with illustrator Allie Su, who, like me,
also grew up in Taiwan. We researched special Taiwanese Indigenous attire and
incorporated them into the story. It's our hope that this story can shed light
on the plight of Indigenous tribes in Taiwan.
Q: Novels by Taiwanese authors or books based in Taiwan that
you recommend?
A: Fiona and Jane by Jean Chen Ho, Bestiary by
K-Ming Chang, Green Island by Shawna Yang Ryan.
Q: Favorite Taiwanese films or movies based in Taiwan?
A: Some recent Taiwanese movies I've enjoyed: American
Girl, Dear Ex, My Missing Valentine.
Q: You grew up between Taiwan and California. What was it
like balancing the two cultures at such a young age?
A: I attended kindergarten and first grade in California,
then second to the eighth grade in Taiwan, then high school and college in the
US. It was a bit of a struggle when I was younger, moving between
continents with such frequency. But it also laid the foundation for a
bicultural, bilingual upbringing, and for that I'm very grateful.
Meet the Author:
KIA AND THE DANCING BUTTERFLY Book Tour Giveaway
1 Comments
The book sounds absolutely wonderful. The illustrations are lovely.
ReplyDeletePlease try not to spam posts with the same comments over and over again. Authors like seeing thoughtful comments about their books, not the same old, "I like the cover" or "sounds good" comments. While that is nice, putting some real thought and effort in is appreciated. Thank you.