TSERING YANGZOM LAMA
UBC Library Writer-in-Residence 2024/2025
Tibetan Canadian writer Tsering Yangzom Lama holds a BA in Creative Writing and International Relations from the University of British Columbia, and an MFA from Columbia University. Born and raised in Nepal, Tsering has lived in Toronto, New York City, and Vancouver, where she now resides. Yangzom Lama’s first novel We Measure the Earth With Our Bodies (McClelland & Stewart, 2022) was longlisted for the 2022 Scotiabank Giller Prize. Read Tsering’s full bio.
Q: What have been your biggest professional challenges?
Success itself has been a challenge. I’ve been fortunate with my first novel, reaching a broad audience and receiving valuable feedback from readers not just in Canada, but also in the United States, Europe and Asia. However, now I have to mentally shift back to being a beginner, focusing on the daily struggle of writing. It’s a psychological challenge to forget the success and reorient myself to the blank page, questioning if I can accomplish what I want with my current project.
Q: What has been the highlight of the last year for you professionally?
The highlight has definitely been the release of my book. There’s no guarantee when you start writing a book that it will ever see the light of day, so I’m very grateful for that. Additionally, the response from readers, whether Tibetan or from other backgrounds, has been incredibly touching. People have connected deeply with the characters’ stories, which reflect the experiences of millions of displaced people, including Tibetans.
“It’s a psychological challenge to forget the success and reorient myself to the blank page, questioning if I can accomplish what I want with my current project.”
Q: Why did you want to participate in the Writer-in-Residence program at UBC Library?
I was delighted and surprised to receive the invitation. During my time as an undergrad at UBC, I spent a lot of time in UBC Library reading plays and poems. The library was a crucial part of my self-guided education in creative writing. Being invited back in this capacity feels meaningful.
Q: In your consultation sessions with UBC faculty, staff or students, what topics would you love to discuss or what questions would you love to get?
I’m very open to discussing a wide range of topics related to writing. Whether it’s about the life of a writer, the topics I’m currently researching, or sharing my experiences navigating an early writing career, I’m keen to connect with both students and faculty. I’m happy to offer advice, recommend books, or simply talk about what it’s like to pursue writing seriously.
“UBC Library will be a vital resource for me, as I explore a wide range of topics, from horticulture to historical travelogues. “
Q: Are there any resources at the library that you’re hoping to access while you’re here?
Absolutely. My current project is set in the 11th century on the Silk Road, so I’m interested in almost everything from that era and surrounding periods. UBC Library will be a vital resource for me, as I explore a wide range of topics, from horticulture to historical travelogues. I enjoy leaving things to chance and wandering the stacks to see what I discover.
The UBC Library Writer-in-Residence Program promotes Canadian writing and literature to UBC’s Vancouver campus community. During the 8-month residency which runs from September to April, the Writer will spend their time working on their own project, mentoring emerging writers through one-on-one consultation sessions and group workshops, and sharing their experience with the UBC community. This program is made possible with support from the Peña Fund.