"You are always welcome in a gathering." What I love about returning to Taiwan is seeing older relatives and hearing all their stories. Every time I go back, I feel like more family members come out of the woodwork. One day, we even had 23 people crammed in a house talking together. In honor of my first published book, THE 228 LEGACY, a lot of folks shared memories about The 228 Massacre (1947) and its aftermath. Here are a few interesting tidbits: An auntie remembered savoring the … [Read more...]
Changing my Tagline
November 2, 2015 8 Comments
"The coming month shall bring winds of change in your life." Have you noticed a change on my website? For mobile users, it probably looks the same, but those checking it out on a computer may see something slightly different. What is it? My tagline. A tagline is a slogan that helps you remember something--in this case, a person. My old line read, Asian-American fiction with a geriatric twist. My new slogan is Multicultural fiction, Intergenerational drama. The old version really … [Read more...]
Seniors Around the World
August 3, 2015 3 Comments
As part of the challenge of "5 Photos, 5 Stories" (by Evelyne's invitation), I'm presenting my five memories of meeting seniors during recent travels: 1) Los Angeles, CA During a volunteer reading at a local senior home, this resident came my way. He has actually been through the traumatic event which inspired my first novel, The 228 Legacy. I was honored to meet him, and the residents' director later told me was really excited to hear me read. 2) Monterey Park, CA During … [Read more...]
Publishers Weekly Review
July 20, 2015 4 Comments
"You will be rewarded for your efforts." Publishers Weekly is a trade magazine for the book industry and was established in 1872. Nowadays, people trust the publication for its reviews. If you look at any big press novel, you'll find an editorial review from PW. For a small press, it's difficult to get a shot at this system. However, PW recently implemented BookLife. By registering your work on their site, indie and self-published authors get a chance to have their book reviewed (for free, … [Read more...]
You’re Invited to a Party!
June 29, 2015 6 Comments
What's the fun part about launching a book? A party. Here are some highlights from the launch of my debut novel, The 228 Legacy: Cupcakes Fun raffle Kids' crafts Reader testimonials Yummy snacks What's not to love? I even got to connect with online buddies (thanks, Linda!) and reconnect with old high school friends (thanks, Paul!). So here's your official invite for my next party in honor of Seniors Sleuth. So Cal folks, come join the fun! Book … [Read more...]
Booktrope Acceptance
March 16, 2015 13 Comments
“An important business venture may soon develop for you.” It looks like this year will be very busy for me! I recently got a manuscript (it's YA with intergenerational drama, like The 228 Legacy—but with paranormal elements) accepted by Booktrope. Booktrope is a company looking to revolutionize the book industry by using team publishing. Here’s an overview of how the system works: First readers look through all submitted materials and serve as gatekeepers (if selected, the author can … [Read more...]
Book Trailers and Beyond
November 24, 2014 6 Comments
"Many possibilities are open to you. Take advantage of them." The modern world mingles mediums. Take, for example, the book trailer. It's a visual sneak preview of something that's written. Admittedly, I personally don't watch the latest video and then go out and buy a novel. Nevertheless, I'm extremely excited to present the official book trailer for The 228 Legacy: Go ahead and like it on Youtube! If you enjoyed it, share with your friends. Beyond book trailers, there are other … [Read more...]
Reading at a Senior Home: One Elder’s Reaction
October 7, 2013 14 Comments
"A single spark can set a prairie on fire." -Chinese proverb This saying, although centuries old, is closely associated with an essay entitled, "A Single Spark Can Start a Prairie Fire," by Mao Zedong. In his document dated January 5, 1930, he talks about his idea to win over the masses and ensure a successful revolution. He urged the conquest of rural areas and having "an armed independent regime of workers and peasants" before surrounding the cities and taking over the government. His tactics … [Read more...]
