Wayson Choy was a Chinese Canadian writer born on April 20, 1939, in Vancouver, British Columbia. Raised as an only child by adoptive parents in Vancouver’s Chinatown, his early life experiences and cultural background profoundly influenced his literary work. Choy’s most acclaimed novel, *The Jade Peony* (1995), explores the lives of a Chinese immigrant family in Vancouver during the 1930s and 1940s, reflecting on the challenges of identity, heritage, and cross-cultural experiences. This novel, which earned him significant recognition and multiple awards, the novel is notable for its nuanced portrayal of the immigrant experience, particularly through the perspectives of the Chen children.
Wayson Choy was a Chinese Canadian writer born on April 20, 1939, in Vancouver, British Columbia. Raised as an only child by adoptive parents in Vancouver’s Chinatown, his early life experiences and cultural background profoundly influenced his literary work. Choy’s most acclaimed novel, *The Jade Peony* (1995), explores the lives of a Chinese immigrant family in Vancouver during the 1930s and 1940s, reflecting on the challenges of identity, heritage, and cross-cultural experiences. This novel, which earned him significant recognition and multiple awards, the novel is notable for its nuanced portrayal of the immigrant experience, particularly through the perspectives of the Chen children.
Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
VideoMay 12 2026
Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A
Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
VideoMay 8 2026
Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A
Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.