1. In what ways do you relate to your main character, Ai Ling?
I enjoy to eat like Ai Ling does. And I'm also stubborn like she is. Another trait that we share is that we are both students of brush painting--in this way, we see the world very similarly, both drawn to colors and nature and flowers. She is loyal and loves her friends and family, as do I.
2. Did you have to do any research on ancient
Yes. I haven't been lucky enough to visit
3. I see on your website that you are a talented artist. What exactly is "Chinese brush art"?
Chinese brush painting uses rice paper, which is a very unforgiving medium because it is so thin. If you make a mistake on your painting, it's unlikely you can fix it, so you would have to start over and try again. It is very similar to western watercolor, with the exception of working on rice paper. We use calligraphy and other brushes to paint classical subjects such as peony, plum blossom, bambbo, lotus, etc. You can see my brush art on my website: cindypon.com
4. Your covers are both gorgeous and seem well suited to the books. What was your reaction when you first saw them? Did you have any influence in their design?
As with most authors, I didn't have much influence on the cover designs. I loved how well my first original hardcover for Silver Phoenix represented my story. But I also really like the cover for Fury of the
5. What's next for you writing wise?
I've been working on a dystopian short story set in
Fantastic interview! I aven't read these books ye but they sound great :)
ReplyDeleteGreat interview. These books are looking really good. They have done a great job with the covers!!
ReplyDeleteooh, a shapeshifer as a heroine, nice!
Great interview! Silver Phoenix and Fury of the Phoenix both sound like amazing books. I think it's really cool that it includes info about China's past, as there aren't many YA books that are that do. Plus Cindy's current projects sound great as well.
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