Q&A
Tell us something interesting about yourself:
I am a foraging enthusiast.
Current job title:
Full time author.
How would you describe your identity?
Chinese.
Tell us your favourite medium for reading:
I love to read ebooks on my phone.
Tell us your favourite location for reading:
I like to read on the couch while drinking tea or coffee.
Book title:
Mama's Special Wonton Soup.
What inspired your creative process in writing or illustrating your book?
This story is inspired by my own past, learning from my mother’s memories of the village in Guangdong, China where she grew up, and my travel experiences. Although many provinces have now become modern economic hubs, still many villages remain with such tight community and genuine relationships.
Favourite character or moment from the book – and why?
I love all the characters in the story as they represent real people I’ve encountered in the past. I think my favourite moment was when Grandma and Auntie were hanging persimmons to dry. I still have a warm memory of the many strings of orange fruit dangling from the beams like a big curtain.
What themes or messages does your book raise?
Around The Village is inspired by still-common practices in many Chinese villages. While introducing traditional Chinese culture, it features daily practices like farming and fishing, and highlights the self-sufficiency of the village, as well as the tight relationships and generosity within the community. Also, the repetition of simple vocabulary, like “Zǎo ān” and “Xiè xiè” provides young readers an extra context to the culture through Mandarin speech.
How would you describe your artistic or writing style in three words?
Poetic and soothing.
What aspect of the story did you most connect with, and how did it shape your illustrations?
Food is not merely a nourishment. It’s an expression of joy and care. By sharing it, we create a foundation of community and strengthen our bonds.
Favourite illustration – and why?
I love all the characters in the story as they represent real people I’ve encountered in the past. I think my favourite moment was when Grandma and Auntie were hanging persimmons to dry. I still have a warm memory of the many strings of orange fruit dangling from the beams like a big curtain.
Connect
IG: @wmwongcreator
