5 questions with Roots & Bridge

In this new instalment of our 5 questions with series, we interview Brian Li, the President of Roots & Bridge.

1. Tell us about Roots & Bridge. Where are you located and what kinds of books do you publish?

We’re based in Toronto and we focus on books that reflect Canada’s mix of cultures and voices. Roots & Bridge brings great stories from around the world to Canadian readers and supports new work that talks about identity, immigration, and staying connected to where you come from. We work closely with writers and translators to publish both Fiction and Non-fiction that help people feel seen and understood, no matter where they’re from.

2. What’s the single best thing you’ve done to promote your books to readers?

We make it personal. Whether we’re sharing someone’s story about moving to a new country or giving a peek into an author’s writing process, we always focus on why the story matters. It’s not just about selling a book — it’s about making people care. That honest, human approach has helped us grow a loyal, engaged community.

3. What makes your publishing house different from others?

We know what it’s like to build a life in a new country — that’s our team’s lived experience. It shapes how we choose books and how we talk about them. For us, every book is a way to connect people: across cultures, between generations, and through shared stories. We’re not chasing trends — we’re here to make a real impact.

4. What do you wish you had known about publishing when you were starting out?

Publishing a book is just the beginning. Getting it into readers’ hands takes sustained work, clear strategy, and earned trust. Great content is essential — but lasting impact comes from real connection. In a crowded space, that’s what makes a book stand out.

5. What’s next for Roots & Bridge?

We’ve got a few exciting things in the works. We’re looking into publishing bilingual books, adding more translated titles to our list, and hosting local literary events so people can connect in person. We’re also putting energy into supporting first-time writers — especially those who reflect Canada’s mix of cultures and backgrounds.

BONUS: What topics would you like to see more often in the books you publish?

I’d love to see more stories about living in the in-between — people balancing different identities, generations navigating tradition and change, and the beautiful messiness of cultural fusion. Humor, grief, joy — real emotion, in all its layers. That’s where the most compelling stories live.

Thank you Brian for answering our questionnaire! Read more instalments of our 5 questions with series here.

Are you an independent bookseller, small publisher, or library staffer interested in being featured in our 5 questions with blog series? Send us an email!