Ophelia LeongT

Ophelia Leong has been published by Mothers Always Write, The Arcanist, Beyond Science Fiction, Mamalode, Literary Mama, and others. She is a stay-at-home mom of four and she writes and Irish dances in her spare time.

Get to know Ophelia Leong

Birthdate?

January 30, 1990

When did you start writing?

I started writing when I was fourth grade. I used to start a lot of stories, but didn't always finish them! I have been writing ever since.

When and what and where did you first get published?

I consider my first real publication to be "Song of Coos," a poem I wrote about my kids when they were babies. A wonderful online literary magazine called Mothers Always Write published it and I remember feeling so excited and grateful.

Why do you write?

I write because I love to read. I love books and words, and I find myself thinking of stories and characters all the time. I have so many ideas! I wish I had more hours in the day to write all that I want to.

Why do you write Science Fiction and/or Fantasy?

Fantasy is what started my love of reading. I was in fourth grade and started reading Harry Potter and all the David Eddings books. Then I discovered Tolkien, Tamora Pierce, Patricia C. Wrede, and Juliet Marillier. I was hooked. I had so much fun imagining my own worlds and magic that I knew I wanted to write fantasy like my favorite authors. I write other genres as well, but fantasy is my number one. I have written one science fiction story, called "Nannybot," and it was recently published by The Arcanist. I would like to write more Science Fiction though.

Who is your favorite author? Your favorite story?

So hard to choose one! I listed a few favorites in my answer to the question above. I love Lord of the Rings, books and movies, and am re-reading Return of the King right now. I also love Rosamunde Pilcher's novels and short stories. Tove Jansson's Moomin novels are wonderful, as well as Roald Dahl's books, especially Boy. I love Juliet Marillier's Sevenwaters series. I could go on. :)

What are you trying to say with your fiction?

I suppose I want to help others find strength and joy within themselves and their lives. My love of reading and writing helped me get through some hard times, and reading about strong characters overcoming the odds gave me strength too. I also love writing about food, tea, and simple pleasures.

If you could write your own epitaph, what would it say?

Honestly, probably a Lord of the Rings quote.

The Road goes ever on and on

Down from the door where it began.

Now far ahead the Road has gone,

And I must follow, if I can,

Do you blog?

I used to be better at keeping up with my blog, but I still have it. Once I have more time I'll stay on top of it. It's not easy with four kids, but I am hopeful that time will open up. Here's the address: ophelialeong.blogspot.com

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