Picture a half-Chinese American writer who turned her introverted life into a hilarious adventure—meet Jessica Pan! A London-based journalist and author, Pan captured hearts with her witty memoir Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want to Come, where she spent a year embracing extroversion. Her relatable, laugh-out-loud storytelling invites readers to step out of their comfort zones while celebrating the quirks of being human.
From her roots in Texas to her global escapades, Pan’s journey is one of courage and humor. With bylines in The Guardian, VICE, and Refinery29, she’s a voice for those who’d rather stay home but dare to say yes to life’s challenges.
The Making of Jessica Pan
Born in Texas to Chinese immigrant parents, Jessica Pan grew up navigating cultural dualities, a theme that subtly weaves through her work. A graduate of Brown University with a BA in Psychology and Literary Arts, she honed her storytelling skills early on. Her Masters in Journalism from RMIT in Melbourne set the stage for a dynamic career. Pan’s early days as a TV reporter and magazine editor in Beijing sparked her love for capturing human experiences, though her shyness often kept her in the background.
Moving to London with her husband, Sam, Pan faced a new challenge: loneliness in a bustling city. This personal low point inspired her to confront her introversion head-on, leading to the experiment that would define her career. Her ability to turn vulnerability into compelling narratives began to shine.
Jessica Pan’s Unforgettable Stories
Pan’s breakout book, Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want to Come: One Introvert’s Year of Saying Yes (2019), is a comedic gem that chronicles her year-long quest to live like an extrovert. From stand-up comedy to solo travel, Pan’s misadventures—like getting booed for mistaking Scotland for England—are both cringe-worthy and inspiring. Her conversational style, peppered with self-deprecating humor, makes readers feel like they’re chatting with a friend.
Her earlier work, Graduates in Wonderland (2014), co-authored with Rachel Kapelke-Dale, is an epistolary memoir of two friends navigating their 20s in Beijing, Paris, and beyond. It’s a nostalgic ode to youth and discovery. Pan also penned Sushi Kochbuch, a playful dive into Japanese cuisine, showcasing her versatility. Her journalism, featured in The Guardian and VICE’s Broadly, often explores identity, connection, and personal growth, resonating with a global audience.
What sets Pan apart is her knack for blending humor with vulnerability. She champions “Deep Talk”—meaningful conversations over small talk—urging readers to forge authentic connections. Her work doesn’t preach extroversion but celebrates the balance between embracing new experiences and honoring one’s true self.
Why Jessica Pan Matters
Jessica Pan’s impact lies in her fearless honesty about introversion in a world that often glorifies extroverts. Her experiment, which sold over 100,000 copies of Sorry I'm Late, inspired countless readers to face their fears, whether it’s striking up a conversation or trying improv. By sharing her failures—like bombing at comedy gigs—she normalizes the messy, human side of growth, making her a beacon for shy souls everywhere.
Her cross-cultural perspective as a Chinese-American in London adds depth to her storytelling, bridging diverse experiences. Pan’s work reminds us that connection, not perfection, is what fuels a fulfilling life. Her Substack newsletter, It'll Be Fun, They Said, keeps her community engaged with fresh insights.
- Born: Texas, USA
- Key Works: Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want to Come, Graduates in Wonderland, Sushi Kochbuch
- Notable Bylines: The Guardian, VICE, Refinery29
- Education: BA from Brown University, Masters from RMIT
Ready to laugh, cringe, and maybe step out of your shell? Grab Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want to Come and dive into Jessica Pan’s hilarious, heartfelt world!