Picture a Taiwanese-American storyteller who wove ancient Chinese mythology into gripping young adult fantasies—meet Cindy Pon! Born in Taipei and raised in sunny California, Pon’s vibrant tales of strong heroines and mythical realms have captivated readers, blending her cultural roots with imaginative storytelling. Her journey from poetry-writing pre-teen to acclaimed author is as inspiring as her novels.
With a knack for crafting worlds that feel both fantastical and deeply personal, Pon has carved a unique space in young adult fantasy. Her commitment to diverse representation and her love for Chinese brush painting infuse her stories with authenticity and heart, making her a standout voice in contemporary literature.
The Making of Cindy Pon
Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Cindy Pon immigrated to California with her family in 1980 at age six, settling in the suburbs of Los Angeles. Even before mastering English, she was scribbling poetry and stories, fueled by a love for books and her grandfather’s encouragement to keep a journal. Pon earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, San Diego, and a master’s from New York University, but her creative spark always drew her back to writing. As a stay-at-home mom, she rediscovered her passion, channeling her fascination with Chinese culture into her debut novel, a bold leap that would define her career.
Cindy Pon’s Unforgettable Stories
Pon’s debut, Silver Phoenix (2009), introduced readers to the Kingdom of Xia, a lush world inspired by ancient China. Following Ai Ling, a determined heroine battling demons and societal expectations, the novel was named one of Booklist’s Top Ten Fantasy and Science Fiction Books for Youth. Its sequel, Fury of the Phoenix (2011), deepened the saga with themes of reincarnation and redemption, earning praise for its rich worldbuilding.
The Serpentine duology (Serpentine, 2015; Sacrifice, 2016) explores Skybright, a handmaid grappling with her serpentine powers. Both books, Junior Library Guild selections, received starred reviews for their lyrical prose and complex female friendships. Pon’s Want (2017) and its sequel Ruse (2019) shift to a near-future Taipei, tackling pollution and class divides in a thrilling sci-fi heist. Her style—vivid, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant—brings Chinese mythology to life while addressing universal themes of identity and resilience.
Pon’s storytelling often draws on her heritage, incorporating monsters from Chinese folklore and her expertise in Chinese brush painting. Her heroines are fierce yet flawed, navigating love, duty, and self-discovery in worlds where magic and danger collide. This blend of authenticity and imagination sets her apart in the young adult fantasy genre.
Why Cindy Pon Matters
Cindy Pon’s impact extends beyond her books. As co-founder of Diversity in YA with Malinda Lo and an advisory board member of We Need Diverse Books, she’s been a tireless advocate for inclusive storytelling. Her work challenges the lack of Asian representation in fantasy, offering readers characters who reflect their own heritage. Pon’s perseverance through publishing rejections—especially for her Asian-inspired narratives—has paved the way for other diverse voices in young adult literature.
Her novels resonate with teens and adults alike, blending thrilling adventures with poignant coming-of-age tales. By centering strong Asian heroines, Pon has expanded the genre’s boundaries, proving that diverse stories can captivate a global audience. Her legacy is one of empowerment, creativity, and cultural pride.
- Born: Taipei, Taiwan
- Key Works: Silver Phoenix, Serpentine, Want
- Notable Awards: Freeman Book Award Honorable Mention for Want
- Fun Fact: Pon is an award-winning Chinese brush painter!
Ready to dive into a world of mythical creatures and fierce heroines? Snag Silver Phoenix or Want and lose yourself in Cindy Pon’s enchanting young adult fantasies!