Today we’d like to introduce you to Ramona Lee Soo-Jun.

Hi Ramona Lee Soo-Jun, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

I’ve been a storyteller for as long as I can remember – long before I even knew how to write. I have cassette tapes from when I was little, where I’m retelling cartoons and fairy tales. I loved adding my own spin to the stories, with new episodes and events. When I was about 2 or 3 years old, I thought I was lying, because I didn’t quite understand that you could create stories. If it didn’t really happen, then in my mind, it must be a lie. So, in a way, I’ve been lying my whole life; just now it’s in longer, more polished written form.

At 14, I wrote my first book and posted it online, just to see what would happen. A year later, it was published. That was the moment I got hooked on being an author. I’ve never looked back since.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

It’s never been smooth, honestly, it rarely is and that’s okay. There have been a lot of ups and downs, and through it all, I’ve learned so much about the world and about myself, and where I fit into it. When I started, I was really naive, thinking the world was more accepting and welcoming. But as I’ve grown, I’ve realised there’s still so much work to be done, and so much change that needs to happen.

I’m hopeful that, little by little, the publishing world and really, every industry, will become more inclusive, more open, and less gatekept. I know a lot of progress has already been made, but there’s so much more that can and should be done.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

My favourite genre is martial arts action comedy. But I also write in other genres like romantic comedies, dramas and magical realism.

I tend to mix a bit of comedy into a lot of my work. It helps lighten up heavier topics and makes them feel more real. Life is not all serious. If you can find a bit of humour in tough moments, you’re already winning. Things don’t always have to be all one way or the other – there’s room for balance.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?

Something surprising most people don’t know about me? I was born naked. People usually don’t believe me when I say that, but it’s a true story!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: ramona_sj.lee
• Facebook: Ramona Lee Soo-Jun

Image Credits

Jason Cheung