Picture a St. Louis-born storyteller who spins tales of teenage dreams, quirky friendships, and heartfelt self-discovery—meet Amy Spalding! With a knack for blending humor and heart, Amy’s young adult novels, like The Summer of Jordi Pérez and We Used to Be Friends, capture the messy, beautiful chaos of growing up, especially for LGBTQ+ teens. Her stories resonate with readers who crave authentic voices and a side of wit.
Now living in sunny Los Angeles, Amy infuses her work with her love for performing arts and a deep understanding of diverse identities. When she’s not writing, you might catch her performing improv or showering affection on her beloved cats. Let’s dive into the world of this vibrant author!
The Making of Amy Spalding
Amy Spalding grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, where her creative spark first ignited. With a B.A. in Advertising & Marketing Communications from Webster University and an M.A. in Media Studies from The New School, she built a career in film advertising, managing digital media for indie films. Her passion for storytelling, however, led her to writing. Inspired by her love for performing arts, Amy studied longform improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, honing her ability to craft dynamic, relatable characters.
Her journey to authorship wasn’t a straight path but a colorful one, fueled by her experiences in theater, music, and the vibrant Los Angeles scene. These influences shine through in her novels, which balance emotional depth with a playful, conversational tone.
Amy Spalding’s Unforgettable Stories
Amy’s novels are like a perfect mixtape: nostalgic, heartfelt, and impossible to put down. Her breakout hit, The Summer of Jordi Pérez (and the Best Burger in Los Angeles), follows Abby, a fashion-obsessed teen who lands a dream internship and finds unexpected love. Named a best book of 2018 by NPR and the Boston Globe, it’s a celebration of queer joy and self-expression.
We Used to Be Friends tackles the heartbreak of a best-friend breakup, told through dual timelines that weave past and present. Readers praise its raw honesty and complex characters. The Reece Malcolm List introduces Devan, a teen navigating a new life with her enigmatic novelist mother, blending humor with poignant family dynamics. Amy’s adult debut, For Her Consideration, dives into queer romance with Nina, a ghostwriter rediscovering love in Hollywood’s glitzy world.
Amy’s style is distinctly warm and witty, with a focus on diverse representation, especially for LGBTQ+ youth. Her stories explore themes of identity, friendship, and chasing dreams, all wrapped in a voice that feels like chatting with a close friend. Her ability to balance lighthearted moments with deeper emotional truths sets her apart in the YA genre.
Why Amy Spalding Matters
Amy Spalding’s impact goes beyond her page-turning plots. In 2023, she received the Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award for her authentic, funny, and diverse portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters. Her books offer a safe space for teens to see themselves reflected, whether they’re navigating first loves or complex family ties. By centering queer joy and resilience, Amy has carved out a vital niche in young adult literature.
Her work also resonates with readers who value stories about chosen families and personal growth. As a freelance editor, Amy mentors aspiring writers, helping them find their own voices. Her influence is a reminder that stories can be both entertaining and transformative, leaving a lasting mark on readers and the literary world.
- Born: St. Louis, Missouri
- Key Works: The Summer of Jordi Pérez, We Used to Be Friends, For Her Consideration
- Awards: 2023 Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award
- Fun Fact: She’s a cat enthusiast and improv performer!
About Amy Spalding
Ready to fall in love with Amy Spalding’s vibrant world? Grab The Summer of Jordi Pérez and dive into her witty, heartfelt YA adventures!