Winnie M Li, an author and activist residing in the UK, recently published her novel What We Left Unsaid. A Harvard graduate, she has a diverse background that includes writing for travel guidebooks, producing independent films, and developing eco-tourism projects. Her debut novel, Dark Chapter, received an Edgar Award nomination and has been translated into ten languages, followed by her second work, Complicit.
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As a survivor and advocate against gendered violence, Li holds a PhD from the London School of Economics and teaches creative writing and media studies. What We Left Unsaid explores the journey of three estranged siblings who confront a family secret and broader themes of Asian-American experiences in a post-Covid America.
To craft her latest story, Li traveled the same route as her characters on a Great American Road Trip, which influenced the novel's backdrop. This adventure helped her accurately depict key locations and facilitated the exploration of themes such as travel, identity, and family connections.
In a recent interview, Li shared her favorite novels, including The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver for its character perspectives, and Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell for its bold storytelling. Reflecting on her journey as a writer, she recalled first aspiring to be an author at the age of six.
When asked about the inspiration behind What We Left Unsaid, Li described her desire to write a road trip story that also delves into sibling dynamics in adulthood, questioning how their childhood relationships would play out in a modern context.
Li emphasized the importance of her road trip experience, noting that visiting locations like Cadillac Ranch and the Grand Canyon allowed her to authentically portray the settings in her novel.
She also mentioned an unexpected plot twist near the end of the book, aimed at showcasing the unpredictable nature of travel while serving as a culmination for the characters' arcs. Additionally, she enjoys engaging with her reading list, currently tackling non-fiction and noting her aspirations to read more.
Heather Caliendo, the interviewer, expresses her interest in various genres, particularly contemporary fiction and select non-fiction.