Picture a Mexican-born storyteller with a knack for weaving tales of adventure and self-discovery—meet Adi Alsaid! With novels like Let’s Get Lost and North of Happy, this young adult fiction author captures the thrill of youth, the ache of loss, and the beauty of human connection. Born to Israeli parents and shaped by a life across continents, Alsaid’s stories resonate with readers craving heartfelt journeys.
From road trips to kitchen dreams, his books are a love letter to the moments that change us. Let’s dive into the world of Adi Alsaid, a writer whose global perspective and vibrant narratives have carved a unique space in YA literature.
The Making of Adi Alsaid
Adi Alsaid was born on June 30, 1987, in Mexico City, where he grew up surrounded by the vibrant culture and spicy flavors that later seasoned his storytelling. Raised by Israeli parents, Alsaid’s multicultural roots gave him a lens on identity and belonging that shines in his work. He headed to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, to study marketing, but his heart was elsewhere—scribbling stories and devouring fiction during class. After graduating, he packed his car and drove to Monterey, California, chasing the dream of becoming a writer. This leap of faith set the stage for his debut novel, Somewhere Over the Sun, and a career that would take him back to Mexico City and beyond.
Adi Alsaid’s Unforgettable Stories
Alsaid’s breakthrough came with Let’s Get Lost (2014), a road-trip novel that follows Leila, a mysterious girl in a red car, as she transforms the lives of four strangers. Praised as “entertaining and romantic” by Kirkus Reviews, it earned a spot as a YALSA Teens’ Top Ten Nominee in 2015. The book’s episodic structure and themes of self-discovery echo John Green, but Alsaid’s voice—infused with humor and heart—is distinctly his own.
Never Always Sometimes (2015) tackles the classic friends-to-lovers trope with witty banter and emotional depth, earning a Kirkus Reviews Best Books nomination. In North of Happy (2017), Carlos, a teen chef grieving his brother’s death, runs away to chase his culinary dreams. The novel’s vivid kitchen scenes and touch of magical realism make it a standout, lauded by Kirkus as “an exceptional tale of grief, ambition, love, and maturity.” Alsaid also edited Come On In, a powerful anthology of immigration stories, showcasing his commitment to diverse voices.
His style blends contemporary realism with a sprinkle of whimsy, exploring themes of love, loss, and the courage to forge one’s path. Whether it’s a cross-country adventure or a quiet moment in a restaurant, Alsaid’s stories celebrate the messy, beautiful process of growing up.
Why Adi Alsaid Matters
Adi Alsaid’s work resonates because it speaks to the universal quest for identity and purpose, especially for young readers navigating their own crossroads. His multicultural perspective—rooted in his Mexican-Israeli heritage and global travels—adds depth to his characters, who grapple with questions of home and belonging. By editing anthologies like Come On In, he amplifies marginalized voices, making YA literature more inclusive. Alsaid’s ability to craft stories that are both fun and profound ensures his place as a beloved voice in the genre.
- Born: June 30, 1987, Mexico City
- Key Works: Let’s Get Lost, Never Always Sometimes, North of Happy, Come On In
- Awards: YALSA Teens’ Top Ten Nominee (2015), Kirkus Reviews Best Books (2015, 2017)
- Fun Fact: He coaches basketball and loves spicy food!
Snag Let’s Get Lost and dive into Adi Alsaid’s vibrant world of road trips, romance, and self-discovery!