Born and raised in China, I came to Canada in the late 1980s as an international student. Since 2012, I have published poetry, prose, and short stories in both English and Chinese across North America, England, Mainland China, and Taiwan.
In recognition of my literary contributions, I was named a recipient of the 2025 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award. My debut novel, The House Filler (2023), has accumulated an extraordinary track record, winning seven international book awards and placing as a finalist for eight others.
My entire presentation will answer one question: why move to Canada? I will share my "previous life" in China. I am an immigrant and came to Canada in 1988. I have lived in two different countries with different political systems, values, cultures, and histories. My writing has been enriched by two languages and by the literature works from the east and the west. I'd like to share those experience with my audience.
Character Building in Creative Writing
In this presentation, I will start with the main difference between literary fiction and commercial fiction. The next part is about how to create a successful character which involves elements such as the distinction between flat and round characters, abstract and vivid personalities, as well as delving into their motivations and goals. Characters come to life through a triad of perspectives encompassing their physiological, social, and psychological attributes. Writers also have the opportunity to introduce unusual characters, which can add depth and intrigue to the story. The art of describing characters effectively is another crucial skill, ensuring that readers can connect with and visualize them. Finally, the dynamic interplay between protagonist, villains, and supporting characters raises questions about whose story is being told and from whose perspective, shaping the narrative's direction and impact. Character development skills is vital in creative writing, as it allows authors to craft compelling and relatable individuals who guide the story's progression and engage the reader's imagination.
My writing journey. I am at immigrant, and English is my second language. In addition, I suffer long-term disability since 2001. It took me almost 20 years to finish the trilogy in English. I would like to share my experience and the challenges I face with the audience. The message I would like to deliver is: never give up your dream. Where there's a will, there's a way.
