Interview With Author Jasmine L. Quan
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! I’m Jasmine L. Quan — a former luxury fashion professional who traded boardrooms for big cats (and small ones). I’ve written three books so far (one also available in an Italian edition), all inspired by members of the feline family.
My life has been a nomadic journey across continents, leading to the creation of a controversial tiger rewilding project that, against all odds, defied the critics and achieved remarkable milestones.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, Gigia and Me! An Extraordinary Journey, is a tribute to the small but mighty tabby who became my lifeline. When I was lost in my darkest chapter, Gigia’s stubborn purrs and relentless curiosity forced me back into the light.
Through our travels—from sun-drenched piazzas to cramped train compartments—and our daily rituals of mischief, I wanted to reveal the quiet brilliance of feline minds. This book isn’t just our story; it’s a love letter to cats everywhere, dismantling tired stereotypes one paw print at a time.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Gigia insists on being my “writing supervisor,” which means she naps beside me until I take mandatory chin-scratch breaks. I also keep podcasts running—partly for inspiration, partly so Gigia can’t claim I’m ignoring her.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Charles Dickens: For proving unforgettable characters can change how we see society. David Quammen: Who makes science read like a thriller. Mo Yan: Because reality could always use more magical absurdity.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on A Travel Guide by Gigia — a unique travel book offering tips for those who wish to journey with their cats, as well as a curated list of cat-friendly locations throughout Italy. Hopefully, this will save fellow travellers the hard work of discovery!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Gigia’s star power. We’ve partnered with Italy’s iconic COIN department stores for book talks—because nothing sells memoirs like a cat who poses for photos in Verona’s Piazza Bra. Gigia always steals the show, of course — with a few high-fives for the audience.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I’m the wrong person to ask—my process oscillates between “hermit with instant noodles” and “chasing a cat through Venice for accuracy.” But here’s the truth: Let the story dictate the madness. Some demand tiger-level focus; others require you to follow a tabby’s lead.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Your niche isn’t small—it’s an exclusive club.” Tiger conservation plus cat travel memoirs? Apparently, there’s an audience for that (and Gigia’s high-fives confirm it).
What are you reading now?
I’m reading The Dictatorship of Algorithms (La Dittatura degli Algoritmi) by the Italian writer Paolo Landi because even cat ladies need to outsmart the machines .
What’s next for you as a writer?
More Gigia-inspired books!
I truly believe Gigia was sent into my life for a greater purpose — and I’m determined to honour it through our 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?
1. The Song of the Dodo (Gigia approves — it involves fish!)
2. A survival guide (practical, of course!)
3. A history of Ancient Sumeria (to remind me how civilizations rise and fall)
4. A blank notebook—to draft Gigia: Castaway
Author Websites and Profiles
Jasmine L. Quan Amazon Profile
Jasmine L. Quan’s Social Media Links
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