I’m a Helsinki-based nonfiction author, lecturer, and journalist who has spent years exploring the world. Born in Pyhäjärvi, Finland in 1971, I moved to Helsinki after high school. Since then, journalism has taken me to China, Sweden, and Taiwan, reporting for a Finnish audience. Most of the time I have worked at the biggest Finnish daily Helsingin Sanomat. I’m married, with no children or pets—though art fills that space. Our home is called the Art Home M&M, and it truly lives up to the name.

My first three nonfiction books focused on China, but I’ve since broadened my themes. My latest book delves into the motives and outcomes of helping others, and the one I’m currently working on will tackle the challenges of journalism.

Readers and critics alike have praised my writing for its clarity and engaging style, even when addressing complex issues. Yhden lapsen kansa (translated to Secrets and Sibblings - the vanished lives of China’s one child policy, published by ZED), a book on China’s one-child policy, won the prestigious Finlandia Prize and the Blogistan Award, given by Finnish book bloggers. Kiinalainen juttu, which debunks popular myths about China, was named Best Travel Book by Mondo magazine.

Said about Secrets and Sibblings - the vanished lives of China’s one child policy:

Jörn Donner, Finlandia Prize jury chair :
”Let me be clear—this is a touching and moving book."

Pauliina Erikson at Suomen Kuvalehti:
"At times, it reads like a novel."

Publications

Toimittaja kertoo niin totta kuin osaa, Vastapaino, Fall 2025
Hyvät aikeet - Miksi autamme ja mitä siitä seuraa? Atena, 2020
Kiinalainen juttu - 33 myyttiä, jotka vaativat kumoamista, Atena, 2018
Yhden lapsen kansa: Kiinan salavauvat, pikku keisarit ja hylätyt tyttäret, Atena, 2016 — Translated by Mia Spangenberg: Secrets and Sibblings - the vanished lives of China’s one child policy,  ZED 2019
Suomalaisia sieniruokia kiinalaisella otteella (with Ina Ruokolainen), Nemo, 2016