Why I Chose to Write a Political, Science Fiction Series

I wrote a blog post less than a year ago about what motivated me to write the Reign of the North Forest book series, but I touched on this only briefly. I feel it's time for another reflection.

Here is my past blog: What Inspired Me to Write the Reign of the North Forest series?

In general I try to stay apprised on social issues, but I don’t feel that I'm particularly eloquent engaging in this dialogue, especially over social media. And so I try to raise other people's voices. (I'm most active on Tiktok, trying to push the algorithm.)

My strength lies in written storytelling. And I think (I hope) that I successfully captured a very human, political story in my novels.

Governments have a burden of responsibility that they should embrace—which at times, they do—but they also choose to neglect their responsibility, and perpetuate harm. This flawed, sociopolitical system is what I wanted to explore in my writing. My main characters, Sergen and Kale, fight against a harsh, oppressive regime. Sergen comes from a place of disadvantage, whereas Kale comes from a position of privilege.

Authors are constantly thinking about their stories. I've published two books now. I am currently self-editing Book 3 and am finishing a first draft of Book 4—slowly, as I am struggling to focus these days. I overanalyze all elements of my writing. And yet I still get emotional when thinking about my cast of characters. The events of Reign of the North Forest are entirely fictional, but their struggles parallel the real world.

The day I wrote this blog post, like the rest of the world, I was witnessing the genocide and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people. I was sorrowfully watching fresh video footage of another Nakba, in 2023.

There are also humanitarian crises in Congo, Sudan, Yemen…there are so many atrocities across the globe, not to mention the aftermath of all this past and current political interference and colonialism. Victim stories that briefly come to our attention, if at all, and then disappear from view. It's almost unfathomable how much the world is bleeding.

All this suffering is inflicted by morally corrupt governments that are driven by greed, hate, and a thirst for power.

I am not without hope. As terrible as the last weeks have been, I believe there is a greater purpose to all this pain.

The atmosphere feels different this time around. People are coming together and questioning their governments' morality and decisions. The public is speaking up, and demanding change.

Globally, change is coming.

Free Palestine. Free the oppressed.