New Year Resolutions
Books, books, and books
Happy new year, friends.
What a time. I am still in that long, murky, anxious, and solitary space between the book deal and publication. So even though we have counted down to ‘24, I still feel very much like I have yet to begin what’s next. I am sure things will feel very different come May. For now, however, a few “new” resolutions:
Finish a draft of my next novel. I started working on the ideas for my next book in 2022, after I wrote Shanghailanders and before I started looking for an agent. I am hoping to have the majority or all of a first draft done by the end of this year.
Research for said next novel. This involves reading about: NYC history, pop culture from the early aughts, Shakespeare, theatre, and Korean folk customs.
Re-read some books that were influential to Shanghailanders, and some related work that I have not yet read. For example, recently I got my hands on a book called International Migrants in China’s Global City: The New Shanghailanders, by James Farer. I read it because of the coincidence of the title. It is a nonfiction study of expatriate life and culture in Shanghai, and it unsurprisingly touches on many of the themes that my book fictionalizes. I even know some of the people interviewed by Farer. What an uncanny, lovely experience of recognition on many levels. I’m also planning on re-reading some of the books that were mentioned by my characters, for example, Yukio Mishima’s Spring Snow. I have not yet decided whether to re-read Ulysses…
More books. I spent a lot of time last year on editorial work for Shanghailanders, and also taking some breaks to recharge. There were quite a few periods of furious and exhausting work - either related to the book or childcare. This year I hope to return to a more intensive reading schedule, both for the study of craft and to keep up to date with literary life. I am finishing Madame Bovary these days. It is my first time reading the classic, and I want to talk to everyone I know about it, ha!
Overall, my goal is to get back into the work and study of writing. Alongside that, to prepare for launching my debut into the world. I am excited to be in conversation with my publishers these days about book tour, travel dates, and events. Closer to May I’ll announce the details.
Finally, Some Book Offers:
If you’d like a chance at winning a free copy, we have another Goodreads Giveaway ongoing until Wednesday, January 24, for US-based readers.
And if you’d like to go ahead and preorder the book, please know that Barnes & Noble will be offering 25% off preorders between 1/24-1/26 with the code PREORDER25. I believe this will get you the hardcover delivered on or before the pub date. Here is the link to the page.
Strangely, I just arrived in Shanghai for the first time, half-way through Spring Snow, which I think might be changing my life... good luck with your book and children!