Stan Yan on Writing Graphic Novels, Creativity, and Authentic Storytelling

The Write It Scared Podcast

Award-winning graphic novelist Stan Yan joins me to talk about his debut late middle-grade graphic novel, The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang (out September 30, 2025). We dig into his creative journey, the highs and lows of publishing, and what it really takes to bring a graphic novel to life.

Stan also shares how embracing authenticity fuels his storytelling—and why representation matters. Plus, parents, librarians, and educators won’t want to miss the giveaway at the end: a chance to win a school visit from Stan himself.

Episode Timestamps

00:19 Welcome to Write It Scared Podcast
01:29 Introducing Stan Yan: Background and Journey
03:22 The Many Misfortunes of Eugene Wang
07:22 Challenges and Inspirations in Writing
17:49 The Writing and Illustrating Process
25:07 Pressure Testing Your Story Idea
25:19 Outlining and Collaborating on Your Pitch
26:22 Knowing If Your Idea Works as a Graphic Novel
27:29 The Role of Illustrators in Graphic Novels
31:10 Starting Small with Graphic Novels
32:14 The Long Journey of Creating a Graphic Novel
34:32 Representation in Graphic Novels
37:41 Fighting Imposter Syndrome
39:43 Creating for Yourself First
42:47 Upcoming Projects and How to Connect
45:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links and Contact info:

JOIN THE STREET TEAM WIN SWAG! → TEAM MISFORTUNE

Stan Yan

Graphic Novelist, Caricature Artist & Instructor

Represented by Ann Rose at Tobias Agency

Book me for an author visit at The Booking Tree

2022 SCBWI Florida Portfolio Excellence Award Winner

Kidlit art instructor at The Cuddlefish Academy

Author/Illustrator of 2025 JLG Selection, THE MANY MISFORTUNES OF EUGENIA WANG (Atheneum (S&S), Coming September 2025)

Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.

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Email: [email protected]

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Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared:

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