Julia Wei Deng

Julia Wei Deng grew up believing that stuffed animals have secret lives.

Born in a tiny fishing village in Fujian, China, she came to America at four years old. As an only child growing up between two cultures, her stuffed animals became faithful companions, inspiring the magical adventures she now shares with young readers.

Julia believes our greatest superpower is never losing the curiosity, wonder, and imagination of childhood. She studied International Relations and Chinese Language at the College of William & Mary and earned a master’s degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. Today, she works as an international relations specialist, proving that creativity and imagination have a place in every profession.

When she’s not writing, you’ll find her playing the piano, building miniature dollhouses, or dreaming up magical new adventures—because no matter how grown-up life becomes, a little imagination can still change the world.