Laurence Yep

Date of Birth: June 14, 1948

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Laurence Yep is an acclaimed American author, best known for his contributions to children’s literature and young adult fiction. Born and raised in San Francisco, California, Yep has been a pivotal figure in bringing Chinese-American history and culture to the forefront of American literature. His most famous work, the “Golden Mountain Chronicles,” is a series of books that depict the lives of Chinese immigrants in America. Yep’s writing is celebrated for its rich storytelling, historical accuracy, and deep emotional resonance. Laurence Yep was born to a Chinese-American family that owned a grocery store in an African-American neighborhood, exposing him to diverse cultures from a young age. He attended St. Ignatius College Preparatory and later earned a B.A. from Marquette University and a Ph.D. in English from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Throughout his career, Yep has received numerous awards, including the Newbery Honor for “Dragonwings” and “Dragon’s Gate.” His work often explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience, making him a beloved and influential figure in the realm of children’s literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Laurence Yep

1. Laurence Yep started writing at the age of 18 and sold his first story to a science fiction magazine.

2. His series, the “Golden Mountain Chronicles,” spans over 150 years and covers significant events in Chinese-American history.

3. Yep has also written science fiction and fantasy novels, showcasing his versatility as a writer.

4. He has won the Phoenix Award for his book “Dragonwings,” which commemorates literature that has stood the test of time.

5. Laurence Yep has taught creative writing and literature at the University of California, Berkeley.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Laurence Yep

1. “The only way you can write the truth is to assume that what you set down will never be read. Not by any other person, and not even by yourself at some later date.”

2. “To me, the greatest pleasure of writing is not what it’s about, but the inner music that words make.”

3. “Writing is not apart from living. Writing is a kind of double living. The writer experiences everything twice. Once in reality and once in that mirror which waits always before or behind.”

4. “I often write about people who are considered outsiders, and I think it’s because I’ve always felt like an outsider myself.”

5. “Every book is a new journey, a new adventure, and every book teaches me something new about myself and the world.”