Henry Lien on Positive Representation

In the wake of Orlando’s tragedy, I’m terrified that we will forget there is something writers can do. Here, Henry Lien expresses his intent much better than I ever could.

Here’s something I can do in the aftermath of Orlando. I’m a children’s author. I’m also a gay person of color. I’m always going to include LGBT characters and people of color in my books. I’m going to ally myself with enlightened gatekeepers like my agent at ICM Tina Dubois Wexler and my editor at Razorbill/Penguin Random House Tiffany Liao, who support me in this. I’m going to work even harder and push myself to write the best books I possibly can in order to get my work to the widest audience possible. I will remain visible to people who want me to be invisible and who rage because history is rightfully leaving them behind. YOU CAN’T STOP THE FUTURE, YOU CAN ONLY DECIDE IF YOU’RE GOING TO BE PART OF IT.

Love,

Henry

Reposted with permission.



Monica Valentinelli is an author, artist, and narrative designer who writes about magic, mystery, and mayhem. Her portfolio includes stories, games, comics, essays, and pop culture books.

In addition to her own worlds, she has worked on a number of different properties including Vampire: the Masquerade, Shadowrun, Hunter: the Vigil, Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn, and Robert E. Howard’s Conan.

Looking for Monica’s books and games that are still in print? Visit Monica Valentinelli on Amazon’s Author Central or a bookstore near you.

Want to Interview or Hire Me? Send Fan Mail?

Would you like to hire me? Don’t be afraid to reach out! Visit my Contact Page to send me an email. I typically respond to work-related e-mails within one-to-two business days.

Want an interview? If you’d like to interview me or request a guest blog post, please submit your request through theContact Page.

Back to Top