Q&A with Kaenyn King – Author Interview

We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive Q&A with debut author Kaenyn King, whose highly anticipated novel Teach Me K-Pop is set to release in early June. Bursting with energy, heart, and the infectious spirit of K-pop culture, this coming-of-age story is already generating excitement among readers eager for fresh, inclusive voices in YA fiction. In this interview, Kaenyn dives into the inspiration behind the book, their writing journey, and what it’s like to bring their very first novel into the world.

With Teach Me K-Pop, Kaenyn blends themes of identity, fandom, and self-discovery into a vibrant narrative that’s as emotionally resonant as it is fun. They share insights into crafting authentic characters, navigating debut author nerves, and how K-pop’s global impact helped shape the story’s emotional core. Whether you’re a lifelong K-pop fan or simply love a heartfelt, character-driven tale, this Q&A offers a behind-the-scenes look at a debut novel you won’t want to miss.

About The Author

Tell us more about you

Every time I’m asked something like this, I forget every single thing about myself. Zero facts. Do I even exist?

• I’ve been active in various ways on bookstagram for the last few years and I’ve met some of my best friends there.
• I’m a recovering ellipsis addict. I switched to em dashes, and now that’s a problem.
• My ideal evening involves Trader Joe’s hotteok and watching “Are You Sure?!” on Disney+.

What are the three items you’d take on a deserted island?

For practicality: probably matches and something like a machete. For trying to make the best of things: a hammock. 

Who is your biggest role model?

The people who inspire me to be better in some way. 

What is your favourite book and who is your favourite author?

My all-time favourite book is “The Alchemist” (Paulo Coelho), but the book that changed everything for me was “Hamartia” by Scarlett Drake.

Do you prefer e-books, physical books or audiobooks?

Physical books are always my preference, but I’ll do e-books, too. I just can’t get into audiobooks, despite my best attempts.

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

I’ve been writing as a hobby since I was an undergrad (many years and several degrees ago). My day job would absolutely not approve of my hobby.

What social media platform do you like and use the most?

I’m on IG the most. I’m trying to get into threads, too.

My social channels are:

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

This book (TMKP) was the first thing I’ve ever seriously outlined. I had the whole thing in my head (literally just POOF! one day), and I needed to be sure I could finish it before I started. I just finished the outline for book two, so I guess that’s a thing I do now. LOL.

Where do you like to write?

I write almost exclusively at my desk at home, but I definitely write notes to myself all over the place. Most recently in the travel section of a department store. 

What do you like most about writing?

Setting the scene and telling the story are amazing, but my absolute favourite part is when it feels like I’ve totally lost control of everything and the characters are telling me what’s going on. I’m just there to type it all. To me, that’s how I know I’m going in the right direction.

What do you find stops you from writing more?

Real life is always getting in the way. I was diagnosed with a chronic illness last year, and that very much threw me for a loop, but also just the day-to-day makes it hard, too. 

What genres do you like to write and why?

I’ve always done fiction and romance (even back in my fanfic days). I can read dark, but I write light. I’m just here for happiness, love, and some spice. These days I prefer MM to anything else. The stories and characters are just so much more heartfelt and all-around interesting. Queer love stories with happy endings (both literal and figurative) are a win for everyone, I think.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring writers?

Write everything down and keep it all: the notes, the snippets, the crazy ideas. You never know when you might be totally inspired by some/all of it.

Showcase your books!

How many books have you written and if more than one, what’s your favourite?

Just one so far! I have an outline for book two and a solid general plot for book three, though.

How long did Teach Me K-Pop take to write?

Right at a year. I started in January ‘24 and finished in January ‘25, but I did take 4 months off and didn’t write a word while dealing with some crazy health stuff. 

Lastly, what is your favourite thing about being an author?

Knowing someone enjoyed my words is about the best possible thing any author can hope for. I hope everyone who reads my book(s) finds some joy in what I write, and if they connect with it in some way, that’s amazing.

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