Picture a storyteller who laced up their skates and brought the rink to life with heart-pounding YA tales—meet A.L. Graziadei! This American novelist burst onto the Young Adult scene with their 2022 debut, Icebreaker, a story that blends hockey, heart, and hope. Now a rising star, Graziadei crafts relatable characters and gripping narratives that resonate with readers far beyond the ice.
Hailing from Buffalo, New York, Graziadei’s stories pulse with the energy of their roots and their current home in Wisconsin. With a knack for weaving mental health, identity, and found family into their work, they’ve carved a unique space in YA literature, earning accolades like the Michael L. Printz Honor for Icebreaker.
The Making of A.L. Graziadei
Born in Buffalo, A.L. Graziadei grew up steeped in Sabres hockey and video games, passions that fueled their storytelling. These influences shaped their creative spark, leading them to pen novels that capture the intensity of sports and the quiet struggles of self-discovery. Now settled in Wisconsin, Graziadei remains a proud member of the Displaced Buffalo Sabres Fans group, channeling their love for community into their writing. Their journey from gamer to acclaimed author began with a simple goal: to tell stories that feel as real as a rink-side cheer.
A.L. Graziadei’s Unforgettable Stories
Graziadei’s debut, Icebreaker (2022), follows Mickey James III, a hockey legacy grappling with depression, anxiety, and a slow-burn romance with rival Jaysen Caulfield. Critics praised its authentic portrayal of mental health and queer identity, with Kirkus Reviews calling it “thoughtfully rewarding.” The novel’s fast-paced prose and found-family vibe make it a standout in YA contemporary romance.
In 2024, Graziadei released In Repair, a poignant tale of Nathaniel Conti, a college freshman navigating trauma and self-worth. Unlike the hockey-driven Icebreaker, this novel explores lacrosse and queerplatonic bonds, earning acclaim for its raw, empathetic prose. Booklist noted its “deep exploration of trauma responses,” cementing Graziadei’s skill in tackling heavy themes with grace.
Graziadei’s style is approachable yet profound, blending light, engaging dialogue with unflinching looks at mental health and identity. Their stories often center sports as a backdrop for personal growth, making them accessible to readers who might not know a puck from a pixel. Themes of resilience, community, and self-acceptance thread through their work, inviting readers to root for their flawed, lovable characters.
Why A.L. Graziadei Matters
A.L. Graziadei’s impact lies in their ability to make YA literature feel inclusive and real. By spotlighting mental health and queer representation, they offer a lifeline to readers who see themselves in Mickey’s anxiety or Nathaniel’s trauma. Their Michael L. Printz Honor win signals their growing influence, while their focus on diverse, supportive casts—like Mickey’s hockey team or Nathaniel’s college friends—champions the power of found family. Graziadei’s stories remind us that even in the toughest moments, there’s a team cheering you on.
- About A.L. Graziadei
- Born: Buffalo, New York
- Key Works: Icebreaker (2022), In Repair (2024)
- Awards: Michael L. Printz Honor for Icebreaker (2023)
- Fun Fact: Proud member of the Displaced Buffalo Sabres Fans group
Snag Icebreaker or In Repair and dive into A.L. Graziadei’s heartfelt YA world—where every story feels like a game-winning goal!