Sue Pickford Cheung

What a week!

I had no idea that when I finished Chinglish, the publicity would be so HUGE! Having zero experience of live media, I was chucked in at the deep end, but luckily enjoyed every second. Everyone at the BBC was so welcoming, I felt really at ease.

First up was Vic Minett at Radio Coventry which is where Chinglish is based, so it was fun reminiscing about what the area was like 35 years ago. Next was Jo Good at Radio London – she was so enthused about Chinglish. She told me she’d been friends with Louise Rennison and is very much into this genre. The big one was Radio 4 Woman’s Hour. I love this programme and have listened to it on and off for years – plus Jane Garvey is an absolute legend and hero of mine! I also recorded a separate podcast with her afterwards, about my life after Chinglish.

On launch day I visited the biggest bookshop in the UK, Waterstones in Piccadilly London, to sign some books. I was proud as punch to see Chinglish on the table in the YA section. For so long I’ve admired the books that appear on these prestige displays, and now I’m on them!

Lastly I travelled to Salford Media City for my BBC Breakfast TV appearance. This was the one I was most nervous about because now everyone would be able to see me! I didn’t get much kip the night before and I think I put my make-up on in the dark, haha! But I needn’t have worried as all the staff and presenters were awesome!

I’m trying to let it all sink in, but people keep sending me messages including, I’ve just learned, that Chinglish has sold out on Amazon UK! I can’t believe the response my book has been getting. It’s been such an amazing experience and my gratitude goes out to everyone who has supported me along the way: my agent, editor, all the team at Andersen Press, friends, family and strangers who have all been so kind and encouraging – THANK YOU!!!!