Picture a storyteller who turned a life-altering accident into a springboard for heartfelt young adult novels—meet Abigail Johnson! This Arizona-based author has captured readers’ hearts with her authentic, emotionally rich stories, starting with her debut, If I Fix You, in 2016. With a knack for blending resilience and romance, Johnson’s work resonates with teens and adults alike, proving that even the toughest challenges can fuel beautiful art.
From her cross-country move as a kid to her inspiring journey as a tetraplegic, Johnson’s life is as compelling as her books. Her stories, set against the sun-soaked backdrop of Arizona, explore themes of healing, love, and self-discovery, making her a standout voice in young adult fiction.
The Making of Abigail Johnson
Born in Pennsylvania, Abigail Johnson was twelve when her family swapped snowy winters for Arizona’s endless summers. She documented their cross-country road trip in a purple spiral-bound notebook, a habit that sparked her lifelong love of writing. At seventeen, a car accident left her a tetraplegic, but Johnson’s spirit remained unbroken. She bodysurfed in Mexico, directed a high-school production of Cinderella, and embraced roller coasters—proof of her fearless approach to life.
College was where her author dreams took shape. A creative writing class ignited her passion, though early attempts, like an Indiana Jones-style adventure, didn’t quite hit the mark. Undeterred, she leaned into stories closer to home, drawing from her Arizona roots and personal experiences to craft relatable, poignant narratives.
Abigail Johnson’s Unforgettable Stories
Johnson’s debut, If I Fix You (2016), introduces Jill Whitaker, a teen grappling with her mother’s abrupt departure and a broken friendship. Set in Mesa, Arizona, the novel’s vivid setting and raw emotions earned praise for their authenticity. Readers lauded its nuanced take on self-healing, with one Arizona native calling it a ‘fluid, clear’ reflection of local life.
Her follow-up, The First to Know (2017), dives into family secrets when a DNA test upends Dana’s life. Even If I Fall (2019), a Junior Library Guild selection, weaves a tender romance amid grief and guilt, showcasing Johnson’s ability to balance heavy themes with hope. Every Other Weekend (2020) explores divorce and abusive relationships, earning accolades for its well-developed characters and heartwarming friendships.
Johnson’s style is grounded yet lyrical, with a focus on real-world issues like loss, family dynamics, and personal growth. Her Arizona settings add a vibrant backdrop, while her characters—often teens navigating complex emotions—feel achingly real. Her latest, Every Time You Go Away (2023), continues her tradition of blending grief and love with lyrical grace.
Why Abigail Johnson Matters
Abigail Johnson’s impact lies in her ability to turn personal adversity into universal stories. Her novels resonate with young adults facing their own struggles, offering hope and relatability. By tackling tough topics like disability, divorce, and trauma with sensitivity, she’s carved a niche in YA fiction, inspiring readers to find strength in vulnerability.
Her journey as a tetraplegic author also sets her apart, showing that limitations don’t define talent. Johnson’s persistence—from shelving early manuscripts to landing a literary agent—motivates aspiring writers, proving that hard work and heart can lead to success.
- Born: Pennsylvania
- Key Works: If I Fix You, Every Other Weekend, Even If I Fall
- Awards: Junior Library Guild selection for Even If I Fall
Snag If I Fix You and dive into Abigail Johnson’s heartfelt YA world! Her stories of resilience and romance will leave you inspired and ready for more.