Picture a Hmong-American storyteller who spun magical worlds from her refugee roots—meet Lori M. Lee! This young adult fantasy author crafts tales brimming with adventure, identity, and courage, weaving her Laotian heritage into stories that captivate readers worldwide. From fleeing war-torn Laos to enchanting readers with books like Pahua and the Soul Stealer, Lee’s journey is as inspiring as her prose.
The Making of Lori M. Lee
Born in the mountains of Laos, Lori M. Lee’s early life was shaped by her family’s escape from conflict. At three, they resettled in Wisconsin after time in a Thai refugee camp, a transition she humorously claims was guided by 'invisible flying unicorns.' Storytelling was her lifeline, rooted in Hmong oral traditions and fueled by fantasy novels. By third grade, she was penning stories, her first a preteen fantasy romance she now laughs off as a 'Mary Sue' creation. A creative writing degree honed her craft, setting the stage for a career blending cultural pride with magical narratives.
Lori M. Lee’s Unforgettable Stories
Lee’s debut, Gates of Thread and Stone (2014), introduced Kai, a teen who manipulates time in a secretive city. This YA fantasy blends magic and mystery, showcasing Lee’s knack for vivid world-building. Her Shamanborn series, starting with Forest of Souls (2020), follows Sirscha, a spy-turned-shaman, navigating a Hmong-inspired world of spirits and destiny. The middle-grade Pahua and the Soul Stealer (2021), published under Rick Riordan Presents, stars Pahua Moua, a Hmong girl battling spirits with humor and heart. Its sequel, Pahua and the Dragon’s Secret (2024), deepens her magical journey. Lee’s style merges Southeast Asian mythology with universal themes of family and self-discovery, delivered with a playful, accessible tone.
Her stories stand out for their cultural authenticity, drawing from Hmong folktales she heard as a child. Lee’s characters, often outsiders like herself, grapple with identity and belonging, resonating with readers seeking diverse heroes. Her love for unicorns and penchant for Caps Lock enthusiasm shine through, adding whimsy to her epic tales.
Why Lori M. Lee Matters
Lori M. Lee’s work fills a vital gap in fantasy, offering Hmong representation in a genre long dominated by Western tropes. Her stories empower young readers, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, to see themselves as heroes. By blending Hmong culture with universal struggles, she bridges worlds, fostering empathy and pride. Her 2022 Mythopoeic Award nomination for Pahua and the Soul Stealer underscores her growing influence. Lee’s journey from refugee to celebrated author inspires, proving storytelling can transform lives.
- Born: Laos, exact date unknown (assigned in refugee camp)
- Key Works: Gates of Thread and Stone, Forest of Souls, Pahua and the Soul Stealer
- Awards: 2022 Mythopoeic Award nominee
- Fun Fact: Obsessed with unicorns, Lee calls them 'glorious and majestic'!
Snag Pahua and the Soul Stealer and dive into Lori M. Lee’s enchanting blend of Hmong magic and adventure!