Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of love, loss, and finding home—meet Allison Larkin! This internationally bestselling author has captured hearts with her emotionally rich novels, blending humor and heartache in contemporary fiction. Her breakout hit, The People We Keep, launched her into the literary spotlight, but her earlier works, penned as Allie Larkin, are just as captivating.
Born with a knack for storytelling, Larkin’s journey from a drama major to a celebrated novelist is as compelling as her books. With a light, engaging style, she invites readers into worlds where characters grapple with identity and connection, making her a standout voice in modern literature.
The Making of Allison Larkin
Growing up in Rochester, New York, Allison Larkin always felt like an oddball, a trait that later fueled her relatable characters. She studied drama at Ithaca College, where she honed her understanding of character development, though she was perhaps the quietest theatre major ever. After a post-college whirlwind—diagnosed with ADHD, dropping out, and bartending at a biker bar—Larkin found her calling in writing. Inspired by authors like John Steinbeck and Pat Conroy, she began crafting stories that blend raw emotion with sharp wit.
Her early career wasn’t all smooth sailing. Larkin juggled soul-crushing jobs and a writing group, slowly shaping her voice. A chance meeting with her future husband, Jeremy, at a picnic sparked love at first sight, grounding her as she pursued her literary dreams in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Allison Larkin’s Unforgettable Stories
Larkin’s novels, whether as Allie or Allison, explore love, friendship, and the search for belonging. Her debut, Stay (2010), written as Allie Larkin, is a heartfelt tale of love and loyalty, inspired by her German Shepherd, Argo. The story follows Van, who impulsively buys a dog online, leading to unexpected romance and self-discovery. It’s a warm, funny read that showcases Larkin’s knack for blending humor with heart.
Why Can’t I Be You (2013) dives into identity and friendship, following Jenny, who assumes a new persona at a high school reunion. It’s a poignant exploration of longing to be someone else, wrapped in Larkin’s signature wit. Swimming for Sunlight (2019) tackles anxiety and reinvention, drawing from Larkin’s own experiences with her rescue dog, Stella. Her 2021 masterpiece, The People We Keep, follows April Sawicki, a young songwriter searching for home. This coming-of-age story, set partly in Ithaca, resonates with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.
Larkin’s style is lyrical yet accessible, with characters who feel like old friends. Her themes—self-acceptance, chosen family, and resilience—strike a universal chord, making her novels both intimate and impactful.
Why Allison Larkin Matters
Allison Larkin’s work resonates because it speaks to the misfits and dreamers. Her stories celebrate the messy, beautiful journey of finding where you belong, earning her a devoted readership and critical acclaim, like being a Book of the Month Club pick for The People We Keep. By drawing from her own struggles with ADHD and anxiety, Larkin crafts authentic narratives that inspire empathy and courage.
Her influence extends beyond books. Larkin connects with readers on social media, sharing insights with warmth and humor. Her upcoming novel, Home of the American Circus, promises to continue her legacy of exploring broken families and redemption, proving she’s a storyteller to watch.
- Key Works: Stay, Why Can’t I Be You, Swimming for Sunlight, The People We Keep
- Residence: San Francisco Bay Area
- Pets: German Shepherds Argo, Stella, and Roxy
Snag The People We Keep and dive into Allison Larkin’s heartfelt world of contemporary fiction!