‘Books in Order: Delving Deeper into the Literary World of Xiran Jay Zhao’
Xiran Jay Zhao, the mesmerizing Chinese-Canadian author, took the literary world by storm in 2021 with her debut novel, ‘Iron Widow.’ This enchanting YA novel, ingeniously labeled as ‘Pacific Rim meets The Handmaid’s Tale,’ was an instant sensation, featuring proudly on The New York Times bestseller list. Born in China, Zhao chose to immigrate to Canada where she met an unforeseen fate intertwined with literature.
An Unlikely Path: From Biochemical Research to Bestsellers
Zhao, a Simon Fraser University, Vancouver graduate, holds an intriguing degree in biochemical disease research. However, destiny played its cards, and in the midst of the COVID crisis, instead of chasing science, she chose to stay home and began weaving words, thus entering the world of fiction.
Unique Writing Style and Prolific Literary Work
While Zhao capably navigates the strict ‘books in order’ tradition of writing, she brandishes her unique writing style like a torch, shedding light on the dark corners of cultural narratives and compelling the reader to perceive history from unconventional lenses. Alongside that, she maintains an insightful YouTube channel, boasting enlightening videos about Chinese history and culture, revealing yet another dimension of her multifaceted talent.
‘Books in Order’: Detailing Zhao’s Literary Timeline
Focused on the books in order, Zhao began her journey with ‘Iron Widow.’ This divinely intricate book paints a vivid image of her storytelling technique, captivating readers while teasing forthcoming narratives still in her literary womb. As we continue following her ‘books in order’, we await, with bated breath, for what Xiran Jay Zhao has yet to offer the literary world.
Publication Order of Iron Widow Books
| Iron Widow | (2021) |    |
| Heavenly Tyrant | (2024) | |