Writer’s Series: Kij Johnson

Kij Johnson reading from her book “At the Mouth of the River of Bees: Stories.”

By:Molly Maschka

As a prestigious author of six acclaimed fantasy and science fiction books, plus being a winner of major literary awards including the Hugo award, the Nebula award and the World Fantasy Award, Kij Johnson uses her mind-bending imagination to create weirdly perfect human stories that no one could ever imagine.

“Science fiction and fantasy gives us a different approach to the world,” said Johnson.

Johnson visited Waldorf giving a Master class on science fiction and a reading to promote her new book

As a child, she was always interested in fantasy readings, even westerns, which inspired her to become a writer.

“Growing up, I was always thinking from the sci-fi point of view,” she said. “And when I read ‘Alice in Wonderland’ I knew this was the route I wanted to go.”

In the master’s class, Johnson talked about how much science fiction and fantasy have changed the world over the years that she has been a writer. She stated that the heart of science fiction shows how the world is changing and what could happen around us. Johnson also said since the genre has grown to be popular, more girls are becoming interested in science.

“It is already changing the world, and it is helping the girls get into science. Our future is raised on science,” Johnson said.

When it comes to being a writer, struggles play a big part, especially creating a novel. At the last moments of her reading, Johnson gave some advice to young writers who love to write science fiction and fantasy just as much as she does.

“Just write, and keep writing. Find other people who love to write the same thing as you, because the more stories

you create, the more distinct your writing becomes.”