Tim Tim Cheng

What was your favorite book as a child?

The first book that came to my mind was the abridged history of 秦始皇, the First Emperor of Qin. I don't remember other books my family bought me before primary school started. I was obsessed with that book because that's the only book I had. I read it multiple times and copied it on the walls.

Do you remember the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?

I do most of my creative writing in my second language, English. My family does not know English so being creative with my English writing can really help me process my feelings, and hide them from my family. I also love band sounds with story-telling lyrics. Not mastering an instrument, I placed my desire for musicality and beauty in words.

What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced?

Going to protests when they were still legal and running into my students. I had a hard time figuring out my part to play.

Do you listen to music while reading or writing?

Yes, when I could not focus, but gradually the tapping sounds on the keyboard and the words would take over.