We chat with author Jenna Yoon about Lia Park and the Heavenly Heirlooms, the thrilling second book of the middle grade fantasy Lia Park series which follows Lia and Joon on a mission to protect important magical objects—and themselves—from a mysterious enemy.
Hi, Jenna! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Hello! My name is Jenna Yoon and I’m the author of the Lia Park series, which includes LIA PARK AND THE MISSING JEWEL and LIA PARK AND THE HEAVENLY HEIRLOOMS. I lived about half my life in Korea and the other half in the States. Currently, I live in Texas with my husband and kids. I loved incorporating my background in Korean art history into an action packed middle grade contemporary fantasy series.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
We first moved to the States when I was three years old and I loved when my mom would read us stories in Korean. When I got a little older my mom suggested I write on the back of coloring pages about the story behind the picture. I thought it was a brilliant idea and I had so much fun crafting mostly silly or princess stories. As soon as I learned to read, I couldn’t put books down. I read all the time and got in trouble for reading in the car, when I should’ve been doing homework or sleeping.
Quick lightning round! Tell us the first book you ever remember reading, the one that made you want to become an author, and one that you can’t stop thinking about!
There are so many books to choose from! Even though I never saw myself in books, I was still an avid reader. I loved all the Judy Blume books and even wrote fan letters. I also really enjoyed Choose Your Own Adventure books. Since I was making the decisions, it was easier to pretend I was the main character. I would say a mixture of the books I read growing up made me want to be an author.
Lia Park and the Heavenly Heirlooms is the follow up to your debut Lia Park and the Missing Jewel! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Five words to describe LIA PARK AND THE HEAVENLY HEIRLOOMS would be Korean mythology, adventure, fantasy, friendships, and mystery.
What can readers expect?
LIA PARK AND THE HEAVENLY HEIRLOOMS picks up a few months after where Book 1 ended. Readers can expect to be introduced to a larger magical world, more Korean mythology, and higher stakes. And of course a lot of delicious food. While LIA PARK AND THE MISSING JEWEL delved into family ties, in Book 2, explores the dynamics between friends. Lia is growing up and friendships play a more integral role in her life.
Were there any favourite moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I really enjoyed writing all parts of the book so I don’t think I have any favorite scenes. I absolutely loved building out Lia’s world and blending in more magical elements and art historical sites, and Korean mythology. For LIA PARK AND THE HEAVENLY HEIRLOOMS, there is a mystery element and I had so much fun planting the seeds, clues and trying to throw readers off.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on new material, which I cannot talk about quite yet. 😉
Lastly, are there any other 2023 releases of yours that our readers should look out for?
Yes! The second book in the Lia Park series, LIA PARK AND THE HEAVENLY HEIRLOOMS releases on May 30th. So excited for readers for follow Lia and Joon on their next adventure!
About The Author
Jenna Yoon studied Art History at Wellesley College and received her master’s degree in Korean art history from Ewha Womans University. She’s lived about half her life in both Korea and the United States. When she’s not writing, Jenna loves to travel, find yummy eats, play board games, and take skin care very seriously. Currently, she lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband and two kids. You can find her online at her website, authorjennayoon.com, or Instagram at Twitter at @authorjennayoon
