Eugenia Chu

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Eugenia Chu and I am a first generation Chinese-American citizen. I was born in New Jersey and moved around a lot as a kid, but grew up mostly outside of Boston, Massachusetts and then St. Petersburg, Florida. I have also lived and attended school in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Taipei and Shanghai (summer study abroad). I met my husband in law school and we currently live in Miami with our son, Brandon, and fish, Sharky. I practiced law for 15 years and then became a full-time stay-at-home mom after Brandon was born. I love being a mom! I also enjoy traveling, reading, wine, skiing and yoga!

I’ve written a few stories but have only recently become serious about it and just published my first book this past summer.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest (and first!) book is entitled, Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi (餃子). When my son, the “real” Brandon, was very little, I would read a bedtime story (or 2, or 3!) every night to him and then at lights out, we would discuss his day and all the events that occurred. We would take turns adding information and make up little stories based on the happenings of the day before going to sleep.

At the same time, I was always searching for children’s storybooks to read to him at bedtime which touched upon Chinese culture and which included some Chinese (Mandarin) words to teach and/or reinforce his Chinese vocabulary, but had trouble finding them. Most of the books I found were either straight translation or ABC/123 type books with no storyline. So, I started writing my own based on events in Brandon’s life and the little stories we told at bedtime.  Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi (餃子) is the first “Brandon” story I’ve written and published.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I don’t have a set process or system. I just write when I have time and am inspired. I think a lot about storylines while lying in bed trying to fall asleep, waiting in lines, doing menial tasks, etc. Sometimes I just sit in front of the computer and just start typing.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m not sure I can answer this! I’ve always been a voracious reader, ever since I learned how to read as a little girl! I remember my mom (who was somewhat of a tiger mom) on numerous occasions complaining that I was reading too much and yelling at me to go outside and play! I’ve read and loved hundreds of authors and books, and most of them have influenced me!

What are you working on now?
A few years ago I started writing a story called, Brandon Goes to Chinese School. I actually put a draft of it up on my website eugeniachu.com. Feel free to check it out! Brandon goes to Chinese school every Saturday and I know there are thousands of kids who attend hundreds of these Saturday Chinese schools all over the country. In fact, I even went to Saturday Chinese school growing up in Massachusetts! I hate to say this, but in general, no one like attending Saturday Chinese school! I thought I would write a cute and somewhat funny book about Brandon complaining about Saturday Chinese school and how it’s really kind of fun! I wanted to make the book realistic so included some true whining and complaining! I figured every Saturday Chinese school parent (and student) would be able to relate. Unfortunately, Brandon does NOT like this story! When I asked him what I should change to make it better, he responded, “the topic”! Such the critic!

I’m also working on a new book entitled, Brandon Goes to Beijing (北京), based on our trip to Beijing last fall! We travel a lot so I’m planning on writing more stories about Brandon’s trips to near and far away lands! All including a little Chinese, of course!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Hopefully Awesomegang.com will be my best method! I also use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as Goodreads and SCBWI.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write about what you’re passionate about. Just sit and write from the heart, and if you get stuck, take a break! Watch some tv, have some wine – whatever helps you relax. Then go back with a fresh mind and perspective.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up!

What are you reading now?
A Gentleman in Moscow, by Amor Towles

What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to write more “Brandon” stories!

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Wow – that’s a tough one! How do you decide? If a series can be considered a book (is that cheating?), then: (1) Harry Potter series- my son is currently obsessed with Harry Potter and has renewed my love for the series; (2) Twilight series; (3) the Hunger Games series; and (4) the best book out there on how to survive on, or escape from, a desert island!

Author Websites and Profiles
Eugenia Chu Website
Eugenia Chu Amazon Profile

Eugenia Chu’s Social Media Links
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