Meet Tanya Lloyd Kyi, a celebrated author published by Tundra Books, known for captivating young readers with her engaging stories and relatable characters. As part of Tundra Books’ creator spotlight series, we delve into the world of Tanya Lloyd Kyi, the imaginative mind behind beloved books like Emily Posts, Me and Banksy, and The City of Lost Cats. Get to know the person behind the pages and discover what inspires her creative journey in the realm of children’s literature, brought to you by Tundra Books.
About Tanya Lloyd Kyi:
Tanya Lloyd Kyi has penned over thirty-five books for children and young adults, establishing herself as a prominent voice in contemporary literature for young readers. Her notable works include Emily Posts, a delightful exploration of etiquette in the digital age, and Me and Banksy, a thought-provoking story about privacy and social media. Growing up with an unusually large tortoiseshell cat named D.C., who inspired The City of Lost Cats, Tanya’s childhood experiences often subtly weave their way into her narratives. Before dedicating herself fully to writing, Tanya’s diverse professional background included roles as a graphic designer, editor, and even a dishwasher – experiences that enrich her storytelling perspective. Currently residing in Vancouver, British Columbia, Tanya shares her passion for writing as an instructor at the prestigious UBC School of Creative Writing. Her favorite things offer glimpses into her personality: blue is her preferred color, cheese tops her list of favorite foods, and A Wrinkle in Time holds a special place as her favorite book. This blend of personal tastes and professional dedication shapes the unique voice that resonates within her Tundra Books publications.
Fast Five with Tanya Lloyd Kyi:
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Vancouver remains Tanya’s cherished home. Her initial arrival in Vancouver was for a co-op work term at a publishing house at the age of 23. A pivotal moment occurred when a friend’s aunt introduced her to a reading at the Orpheum Theatre. The experience of listening to authors share their work in such a beautiful setting solidified her desire to make Vancouver her permanent home. The city’s vibrant literary scene and inspiring atmosphere continue to captivate her, making it the ideal place for her creative endeavors.
What’s one thing that can instantly make your day better?
“My dog, Coby,” Tanya enthusiastically shares. Her furry companion’s cheerful presence is a constant source of joy and an instant mood booster, perfectly embodying the simple pleasures in life, much like the heartwarming moments often found in Tundra Books stories.
Which meal is your favorite: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Breakfast is unequivocally Tanya’s favorite meal. She jokingly credits her husband’s daily breakfast preparation as a key reason for their marriage. Highlighting her need for regular meals, Tanya playfully suggests she might be akin to a Tamagotchi, emphasizing her consistent energy needs throughout the day. This lighthearted take on her breakfast preference adds a touch of personal charm, much like the relatable characters in her Tundra Books.
What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
Tanya recounts her first concert experience: Kiss, Slaughter, and Winger in Spokane at seventeen. She vividly remembers the spectacle of Winger’s guitarist using an electric drill on his guitar and Slaughter’s members dramatically whipping their long hair. Despite the crowded,General Admission setting, she thoroughly enjoyed the high-energy performances. However, she humorously admits that she isn’t actually a big music listener. Tanya prefers silence while writing and uniquely opts for podcasts over music during workouts. This preference for a quiet creative environment contrasts amusingly with her memorable first concert, showcasing her diverse personality.
You grew up with a racoon-sized tortoiseshell cat named D.C. (for Darn Cat), what’s the story behind their name?
D.C.’s story begins at Tanya’s parents’ restaurant where he was discovered in the dumpster. Initially dubbed “that darned cat” by her dad due to his habit of startling the restaurant staff, the name stuck. D.C. became a beloved family member for about a decade, known for playfully terrorizing their terrier and dominating sunbeams. This memorable cat inspired Tanya to dedicate The City of Lost Cats to D.C., immortalizing him in her literary world and connecting her personal history with her Tundra Books publication.
Books by Tanya Lloyd Kyi:
The City of Lost Cats
By Tanya Lloyd Kyi
288 Pages | Ages 10+ | Hardcover
ISBN 9781774882108 | Tundra Books
The City of Lost Cats tells the story of Fiona, who discovers a mansion filled with stray cats and parakeets. Fiona, dealing with her own sense of displacement after her parents’ death, empathizes with these animals needing a home. The mansion’s impending demolition prompts Fiona to act, but the resident cats, led by Cot, have their own agendas, creating a blend of human and animal perspectives in a race to save their unique community.
Emily Posts
By Tanya Lloyd Kyi
256 Pages | Ages 10+ | Hardcover
ISBN 9781774882047 | Tundra Books
In Emily Posts, Emily, the creator of her school podcast, faces disruption when Amelie arrives, challenging Emily’s social standing. Emily uses her etiquette knowledge, focusing on a climate march for her podcast. Censorship and replacement by Amelie lead Emily to navigate social media influence, corporate sponsorship, and middle-school dynamics, blending modern activism with classic manners in a story published by Tundra Books.
Me and Banksy
By Tanya Lloyd Kyi
272 Pages | Ages 10+ | Paperback
ISBN 9780735266933 | Puffin Canada
Me and Banksy explores privacy in a camera-filled school where embarrassing videos are leaked. Dominica, after becoming a victim, teams up with friends to find the hacker and starts an art campaign against school surveillance. This novel, while published by Puffin Canada, reflects the engaging storytelling and relevant themes often associated with Tundra Books authors.
Mya’s Strategy to Save the World
By Tanya Lloyd Kyi
200 Pages | Ages 9-12 | Paperback
ISBN 9780735265264 | Puffin Canada
Mya’s Strategy to Save the World features Mya Parsons, a social justice club leader with aspirations for the UN. Her quest for a phone leads to various responsibilities and mishaps, culminating in an accident that helps her realize her growth and capability. Published by Puffin Canada, this story shares Tanya Lloyd Kyi’s characteristic blend of humor and insightful character development, appealing to young readers who enjoy Tundra Books.
