Donna M. Jackson: Hello, my name is Donna M. Jackson. The M stands for Marie, which is my middle name. When I first began writing books, I thought it might add a little pizazz to include the M, since Thelma Jackson is a fairly common name. Now it just so happens that I'm writing a book about names. And while researching it, I was given a Chinese pen name. Many Chinese writers have pen names they say. Some want to conceal their identity, while others want names that more closely match their writing style.

My Chinese name is Tong Jhie. Tong brings to mind the Tong dynasty that reigned during China's golden age of science, poetry, and art. Jhie means One's Older Sister. This fits me perfectly, because I'm the oldest of four children in my family. Overall, I'm told, the name gives a welcoming and kind impression. So the next time you read a book written by Tong Jhie, it could just be me, using my new pen name.