On this episode of Characters Like Us, I talk with young adult author Ann Zhao about writing queer Asian American girlhood, online friendships, fandom culture, and creating stories that feel honest, messy, and deeply personal.

We discuss Ann’s novel Dear Wendy, the influence of fanfiction and internet communities on storytelling, and the importance of writing queer Asian American characters with complexity, humor, and joy.

✨ In this episode:

• Queer Asian American representation in YA
• Fanfiction and online writing communities
• Writing friendship, identity, and girlhood
• Creating authentic queer stories
• The role of the internet in modern storytelling and publishing

📚 Follow Ann on Instagram @annzhao_ and check out Dear Wendy and more books on the Characters Like Us Bookshop!  ...