Frequently Asked Questions

Graci, where were you born? And where did you grow up?

I was born in Seoul, South Korea. Then when I was 3 years old, our family moved home to New Zealand. So I got the pleasure of growing up in Auckland. I like to call myself a Kowi (Korean Kiwi). I love that I get to be 100% of both my identities: 100% Korean, and 100% Kiwi. Because who says you gotta choose one over the other!

What inspired you to start writing?

There are so many things that inspired me to start writing. One part of it was not seeing myself reflected in the books I read as a kid. I wanted for kids like me to know that we can be the heroes of powerful and joyful stories too. But I also wanted everyone else to be able to experience the richness of Korean folktales, mythology, and culture as well. Because stories—especially the ones about magic and wonder—are for EVERYONE!

In terms of what specific life event that really pushed me to start writing, it would have been the time I temporarily went blind. Yes, you read that right. I lost my sight for a while, and during that period of darkness, I really thought about what I wanted to commit my life doing. And I decided I wanted to leave a legacy of love and wonder. So here I am, getting lost in my imagination and penning my books. Thank you for sharing this journey with me :)

Are there common themes to your books?

Yes, I think so. I find everything I have written so far touches on identity, belonging, family, friendships, and the power of choice. I’m also drawn to characters who learn to forge their own paths. And the magic of kindness and empathy.

Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?

Read more books, watch more movies and TV shows, and live life to the fullest. The more “input” you have, the more inspiration you will have to draw from when creating your own worlds and stories. Then WRITE! It doesn’t matter if it’s bad, because that’s kinda the point. Get to the end, and then request feedback from fellow writers. Receiving and incorporating feedback is probably the hardest part of being a writer. And the more you do it, the easier it gets. Writing is all about re-writing, so enjoy the process and have fun!

What does the life of a writer look like?

When I’m actively drafting or revising a manuscript, I live with one leg in the real world and the other in my imaginary one. My husband and daughter have to work pretty hard to pull me back into the real world every night! But during promo season of every year, I will be knee-deep in author tours at schools, libraries, conferences, and events in New Zealand and around the world. And at other times of the year, when I’m in brainstorming mode, you will mostly find me looking blankly out into the distance with a drink or snack in hand ;)

Have you had other jobs before you became an author?

Oh, yes! I used to be a New Zealand diplomat for a decade, and I got to travel all around the world representing my country on the international stage. It was wonderful. I also once created an interactive children’s app for the iPad, and then ran a business that turned drawings into real-life plush toys. Oh, and I used to be the host of an online cooking show called Graci In The Kitchen too, which was broadcast on the Food Channel and the Tastemade Network. It goes to show you two things. One: I am a very restless human! Two: all your lived experiences - as strange as they may seem - can help become inspiration for your writing.

Who are your biggest heroes?

Hands down, my parents. They are my biggest heroes in life. As immigrants to New Zealand, they built a home and community for themselves with nothing but grit and a smile, and not a day goes by that I don’t reflect on their sacrifices and success with gratitude and awe. I love you 엄마 and 아빠! <3

…But Graci, I have a question that wasn’t answered here!

No problem! Just message me through the contact form on this website and ask your question directly. Perhaps I will even include my response on this FAQ page :)