Xiran Jay Zhao

Blending Young Adult science fiction with reimagined Chinese history and mecha anime tropes, the novel Iron Widow introduces readers to a fierce anti-heroine fighting against a patriarchal military structure. Hui Chinese-Canadian creator Xiran Jay Zhao burst onto the speculative fiction scene with this bestselling debut, weaving rich cultural history and sharp social critique into high-octane narrative storytelling.

With a background spanning digital media, educational content, and fiction for young adults, Zhao brings a distinct perspective to speculative worldbuilding. Their works reimagining historical figures and mythologies have earned wide recognition, including major genre literature accolades.

Career & Background

Born in China and raised in a small town before immigrating to Vancouver, British Columbia, in their early teens, Zhao grew up deeply embedded in internet culture. They attended Simon Fraser University, graduating in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemical disease research. When the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional job hunting, Zhao turned toward writing sci-fi and fantasy fiction while launching a successful YouTube channel focused on Chinese history, culture, and media commentary.

Zhao achieved major literary recognition with the 2021 release of Iron Widow, which became a #1 New York Times bestseller and won the British Science Fiction Association Award for Best Book for Younger Readers. Expanding into middle-grade fantasy, Zhao published Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor in 2022. In 2024, Zhao was awarded the Astounding Award for Best New Writer.

Writing Style & Themes

Zhao's writing style is characterized by fast pacing, unfiltered emotional expression, and an explicit engagement with Chinese history and mythology. A recurring focus in their work is female rage, anti-imperialist commentary, and the subversion of patriarchal and systemic hierarchies. By blending historical figures—such as Empress Wu Zetian—with futuristic mecha combat and contemporary pop culture references, Zhao offers an engaging bridge between historical lore and modern speculative fiction.

Major Works

• Iron Widow — Published in 2021, this debut science fiction novel reimagines Empress Wu Zetian as a pilot in a futuristic mecha war. It achieved #1 New York Times bestseller status and won the 2021 BSFA Award for Best Book for Younger Readers.
• Heavenly Tyrant — The sequel to Iron Widow continues Wu Zetian's trajectory as she challenges ruling elites and navigates complex political intrigue and technological warfare.
• Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor — Released in 2022, this middle-grade urban fantasy follows a Chinese-American boy whose gaming headset becomes possessed by the spirit of the First Emperor of China on a mission to seal the realm's underworld portal.