Malavika Kannan Discusses Her Debut Novel 'Unprecedented Times'

Malavika Kannan, a queer Tamil American writer, has made waves with her debut novel “Unprecedented Times” (Henry Holt and Company, 2026). The book combines humor and emotional depth as it explores a range of topics, narrated by the main character, Rishi. Themes include the immigrant experience, college life, coming out, climate change, activism, COVID-19, and sexual assault.

Kannan will be featured at the Miami Book Fair on November 22 at 2 p.m. in Room 8301, Building 8, Third Floor.

In an interview, Kannan shared insights about her character Rishi. While Rishi evokes autobiographical elements and experiences that resonate with Kannan, the author emphasizes that Rishi is ultimately a fictional creation, serving as her alter ego and muse.

Kannan explained that her writing style reflects her conversational tone. She aimed for a fast-paced, queer, and Gen Z cadence that resonates with her readers. Regarding the balance between humor and serious themes, she noted that even heavier subjects like sexual assault contain moments of dark humor, which she describes as a nuanced form of comedy that many queer people navigate.

Having lived through the pandemic in Fort Lauderdale, Kannan drew parallels between her experiences and the book's setting. She expressed a deep attachment to Florida while acknowledging the emotional challenges it brought, especially for the queer community during politically turbulent times.

Kannan also aimed to capture the pandemic's impact as an integral component of her novel, which she deemed essential for a contemporary campus narrative.

Reflecting on the Pulse nightclub shooting, Kannan described the trauma it caused during her coming out period and highlighted how it shaped the experiences of her generation compared to younger queer individuals.

Geography plays a significant role in her work, with Rishi traversing various locations across the U.S. in search of meaning and perspective.

Although Rishi’s friend Kavya expresses a sense of futility about storytelling in a time of loss, Kannan does not share this sentiment, asserting her commitment to writing.

If “Unprecedented Times” were adapted into a film, Kannan would prefer casting comedians from TikTok, particularly those who resonate with her vision of Rishi and the supporting characters.

Currently, Kannan is working on her first essay collection titled “Rage Bait,” which will delve into themes similar to those in her novel, exploring agency and complicity in modern America.