A Young Adult Author Asks... with Christina Li

Explicit content warning

02/04/25 • 60 min

What drives a story forward? Is it the characters, the setting, or the questions we ask about what they want—and what’s standing in their way?

In this episode of QuestionAble Strategy, Antonia sits down with award-winning novelist Christina Li to explore the art of storytelling through curiosity and conflict. Christina is the author of “Clues to the Universe,” “Ruby Lost and Found,” and “True Love and Other Impossible Odds.” She’s also making her adult literary debut this May with her upcoming novel, The Manor of Dreams.

From childhood snacks to intergenerational family dynamics, Christina shares how her own life inspires her writing and how she crafts stories that resonate deeply with readers of all ages. Together, Antonia and Christina reflect on their Stanford days, the challenges of drafting and editing, and the parallels between writing novels and building startups.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to ask meaningful questions that shape character development.
The balance between research and imagination in historical fiction.
Why miscommunication can be both frustrating and narratively rich.
The emotional core of storytelling: ambition, longing, and connection.
How small cultural details can create big moments of resonance for readers.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, creativity, and the questions that bring stories—and characters—to life.

What drives a story forward? Is it the characters, the setting, or the questions we ask about what they want—and what’s standing in their way?

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to ask meaningful questions that shape character development.
The balance between research and imagination in historical fiction.
Why miscommunication can be both frustrating and narratively rich.
The emotional core of storytelling: ambition, longing, and connection.
How small cultural details can create big moments of resonance for readers.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, creativity, and the questions that bring stories—and characters—to life.

Previous Episode

A Communications Expert Asks... with Matt Abrahams

What impact can the right questions have on your communication style?What if the key to captivating conversations lies not in what you say, but in how you ask? Could mastering your listening skills be the key to overcoming social anxiety? In this episode, Antonia speaks with Matt Abrahams, Stanford lecturer and host of the "Think Fast, Talk Smart" podcast, about the transformative power of effective questioning. They dig deep into fundamental patterns and practices that enhance communication. Join us as we explore how curiosity and connection can elevate your interactions, whether in casual conversations or high-stakes situations. From this episode, you can expect to learn about: 1.Strategies for managing anxiety when speaking and asking questions. 2.The importance of active listening in improving communication. 3.Techniques to make small talk feel more natural and engaging. 4.How improvisation can enhance your questioning skills. 5.The role of emotional intelligence in fostering meaningful connections.