Tai Dongqun: Interview & FAQ

Which book did you write first? Even if it's not in order of the published books.

Thieves of Asia, Asian Chronicles.

When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I had fun writing and doing projects for middle school/high school writing class. I was about 14 for the first book, rewrote at 22, and continued.

How did you come up with the series names?

It was a summary of where my series took place.

How long does it take you to write a book?

I have to have inspiration like music or a spark to write. Sometimes I can write a whole book within a month (unedited).

Which Authors did you love and/or grow up reading?

I read Red Scarf Girl by Ji-li Jiang. This was a historical memoir written by the author about her experiences during the Cultural Revolution of China. I was so intrigued of the writing in the little details that happened during that time period. That inspired me to wanting to write my stories in the same time period when the true events happened.

What inspired you? Tv shows, cartoons, anime, or movies? For your books.

In the movie Chinese Zodiac Jackie Chan did help with a clear plot for The Thieves of Asia. The way the movie was scripted along with incredible casting. The storyline made sense and they executed the movie by replacing the artifacts with replicas.

Dream collaboration of directors? Dead or Alive.

Working with Jackie Chan, regardless! It has always been my dream to meet him. I grew up watching all his films even his older films and movies, along with Bruce Lee, brings action and a adventure into his films. All the movies he has been an even in Hollywood has opened a gateway for new and upcoming Asian movies and TV shows.

Why did you add LGBTQ+ characters and/or elements of it?

That’s just nature of some character developments as well.

Thoughts on LGBTQ+ Romance?

Shouldn’t judge people who they love or care about.

Even though some cultures and religions don’t except it fully or supportive of it. What are your thoughts on that?

In some Asians countries some don’t fully support it. In Japan they have Yaoi/BL shows, comics/manga, tv shows and movies. As it is one of the bigger genres that some people are into it. There are many people who are transgender from Thailand as well with also heavy genre of it portrayed in TV shows/movies. There are shown in media but they as supportive in public eye.