THE WD INTERVIEW N.K.Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin wants to be a “storyteller of a writer.” It’s an ambition she claims not to have mastered, but many who have lost themselves in Jemisin’s tales of captive gods and stone eaters are sure to disagree.
Through her three epic fantasy series (the Inheritance trilogy, the Dreamblood duology and the Broken Earth trilogy) as well as dozens of short stories and a novella, Jemisin has become known as a master world creator, each world brought to life through their detailed histories and unique mythology. Even though Jemisin’s stories are set in universes where magic is common, Jemisin’s writing feels pressingly relevant to our own world. Her stories are based on flawed power structures and deeply held prejudices with devastating consequences. There’s also hope—a constant theme through Jemisin’s latest book, How Long ‘til Black Future Month? The short story collection, published in November 2018, imagines futures for people of color like herself.
Storytelling is not just about the tales, but also the connection between the storyteller and their audience. Jemisin cultivates a bond with her readers through means such as her writing groups and outspoken activism in the fantasy and science fiction communities. This bond has paid off. In 2016, Jemisin quit her day job to focus on writing full time with the support of her fans through the Patreon platform.
Among Jemisin’s accolades, her debut novel, was short-listed for the James Tiptree Jr. Award, earned (the final book in Jemisin’s Broken Earth trilogy) won the Hugo Award for Best Novel, Jemisin became the first author to win three Hugo Best Novel Awards in a row. The novel also earned a Nebula Award for Best Novel and a Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel.
