Interview with Olga Tymofiyeva, Author of Just City

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Just City?

It all started with John Rawls’ mind-blowing “veil of ignorance” thought experiment. I learned about it from Professor Michael Sandel’s lectures on “Justice,” which are available online for free. Originally, when I came up with the idea for the game, I wanted to create an actual VR game. Then a board game. But later I came up with a realistic, low-budget version: writing a book.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Just City, what would they be?

Obviously, “Twenty-Something” by Pet Shop Boys for Nathan! Ha-ha

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Non-fiction: Philosophy, Self-Help, Personal Transformation

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Definitely, the fight between Nathan and Jack.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Writing in hotels. You can book a hotel for day use.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Not surprisingly, it’s in “Just City.” A quote by Professor Robert Sapolsky: “You don’t have to choose between being scientific and being compassionate.”

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

See previous question.

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