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International Writers’ Workshop welcomed Jessica Au to HKBU for its 2025 Distinguished Writers Series 

23-10-2025

Jessica Au, award-winning novelist renowned for her novel Cold Enough for Snow (2022), winner of the inaugural Novel Prize, was welcomed to HKBU for the International Writers’ Workshop (IWW) 2025 Distinguished Writers Series on 22 and 23 October. Founded in 2004 with a mission to promote literary and cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and the world, the IWW is one of the signature programmes of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. The IWW was honoured to partner with the Australian Consulate General Hong Kong, which greatly contributed to the success of hosting Ms Au for the Distinguished Writers Series. 

Literary Reading & Conversation (22 October)

Following opening remarks by Prof Daisy Tam, Associate Dean (Development) of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Prof Patrick Holland, Assistant Professor in the Academy of Language and Culture, introduced Ms Au. Subsequent to a literary reading by Ms Au, Prof Holland led an insightful discussion on Cold Enough for Snow, encompassing Ms Au’s writing and life philosophy, explorations of foreignness and belonging, minimalism in writing, and the thematic significance of Japan as a space in her work.

Masterclass (23 October)

Ms Jessica Au's exclusive Masterclass was delivered to HKBU students, aiming to foster in-depth conversations on writing. Participants were privileged to engage closely with Ms. Au, gaining valuable insights into her writing journey and distinctive style. 

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In a conversation with the moderator Prof Patrick Holland (right), Ms Jessica Au (left) openly discusses her life experiences and her usage of minimalism in writing.
The event drew a substantial audience comprising HKBU staff and students, secondary school students, as well as members of the public.
Following the event, Ms Jessica Au stayed behind for a book-signing.
Ms Jessica Au hosted the Masterclass for HKBU students.
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