20 Questions is a Q&A interview series with authors, musicians, and everyone in between, celebrating experiences both shared and individual in the messy game of being human.
“Novels aren’t face-to-face, obviously, but they’re a form of storytelling that depends on empathy and depth of character, which are often missing in the fast, ‘disposable’ content of social media.” Dr. Winnie M Li is an author, activist, and educator. Taiwanese-American and originally from New Jersey, she has lived and worked in the creative industries in Ireland, Qatar, Singapore, and the UK. Before becoming a novelist, she worked for an Oscar-nominated independent film production company in London, focusing on narrative feature and short films. She later programmed for film festivals and even dabbled in designing zoos and tourist attractions.
Her debut novel Dark Chapter won The Guardian’s Not The Booker Prize, was nominated for an Edgar Award, and has been translated into ten languages. Her second novel Complicit draws from her earlier career in the film industry and was described by The New York Times as “harrowing, timely, and thoroughly book-club worthy.” What We Left Unsaid, her latest novel, hit shelves this summer and I had the privilege of getting to know Winnie over a new round of 20 Questions.
Where is your favorite place in the world to be?
London, England. I lived there for nearly 20 years. I’m also a big fan of the Scottish Highlands, but they’re less fun in the rain (which happens often there).
Favorite book of all-time?
Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell.
What is your earliest memory of wanting to be a writer?
In first grade, we were asked to draw a picture of what we wanted to be growing up. I drew myself writing at a desk, and wrote “AUTHOR” underneath it.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
An ambivert? I guess at heart I’m an introvert (I rest and recharge by being on my own), but I probably “present” myself as an extrovert, as I’m generally quite outgoing in social situations.
Biggest pet peeve?
People leaving the toilet seat up and not flushing. I have a five-year-old who currently does this a lot.
Favorite holiday?
Christmas.
The last series you binge-watched?
Dune: Prophecy. It’s only six episodes, so perfect for a long-haul flight.
How would you characterize your latest novel What We Left Unsaid?
A thought-provoking page turner. Part road trip story, part family drama, part meditation on America’s past and present.
The last book you finished?
Yellowface by Rebecca Kuang.
Which authors would you say have influenced you the most?
Barbara Kingsolver, Joyce Carol Oates, or Edward Abbey.
How would you describe the importance of storytelling in an age of isolation?
Storytelling has always been important for humankind, but in the present day when we rely so much on social media and what we see and hear on screens, face-to-face storytelling, in person, is more important than ever to keep the fabric of society intact. Novels aren’t face-to-face, obviously, but they’re a form of storytelling that depends on empathy and depth of character, which are often missing in the fast, “disposable” content of social media.
Best book you’ve read in the past year?
Foster by Claire Keegan.
Your first novel Dark Chapter touched on your own experience with sexual violence. In a post-Roe v. Wade era, what’s one thing you want everyone to keep in mind when discussing sexual assault and consent?
That individuals can have very different reactions to trauma, and there is no one correct way of behaving for victims even though society often demands that.
One movie that will always make you cry?
Anything by Pixar.
Favorite quote of all time?
J.R.R. Tolkien: “Not all those who wander are lost.”
You’re stuck on a long flight. Which world-famous musician would you want sitting next to you and why?
Cher. Because she’s Cher.
Favorite song to get your blood moving?
“ABC” by the Jackson 5.
As a writer and an artist, what would you say is the best way to rest or decompress?
Go for a walk on your own in nature.
Writing at home or in public?
At home. But I also like writing in cafes and libraries, on trains and airplanes.
What can we expect to see next from you?
For my next novel, I’ve been partly inspired by witnessing the deep fascination that some of my students have around the SFF (Science Fiction and Fantasy) genres. While I won’t be writing in those genres, I may be writing about the SFF fandom… Anyway, ask me in another year or so!
Follow Winnie M Li on Instagram and get her latest novel What We Left Unsaid from your local indie bookstore or library.
Jeffrey Reads 