Picture a storyteller who spins tales of cybernetic dragons and defiant teens in a world teetering on the edge of revolution—meet Andrea Tang! This American author, with her knack for blending science fiction, geopolitical intrigue, and diverse heroes, has carved a vibrant niche in young adult literature. Her Rebelwing series, a dazzling mix of mecha battles and social commentary, has captivated readers with its wit and heart.
A martial arts enthusiast and self-proclaimed collector of global gossip, Tang infuses her stories with dynamic energy and sharp insights. From her home in Washington, DC, she crafts narratives that challenge norms and celebrate unlikely heroes, making her a standout voice in YA fiction.
The Making of Andrea Tang
Born and raised in Princeton, New Jersey, Andrea Tang’s journey to authorship was shaped by a rich academic background and a passion for storytelling. A graduate of Bryn Mawr College and the University of Oxford, she honed her intellectual curiosity through studies in international affairs. By day, she works in international risk consulting, gathering geopolitical insights that subtly weave into her fiction. Her love for science fiction and fantasy, sparked in her adolescence, fueled her desire to write for teens, creating stories that resonate with their hopes and struggles.
Tang’s eclectic interests—Brazilian jiu-jitsu, tae kwon do, and even a stint in circus arts—reflect her adventurous spirit. These experiences inform her vivid action sequences and the resilient characters who leap off her pages, ready to challenge oppressive regimes or pilot mechanical dragons.
Andrea Tang’s Unforgettable Stories
Tang’s debut, Rebelwing (2020), introduces Prudence Wu, a sharp-witted high schooler smuggling banned media in a dystopian future. When Pru bonds with a sentient cybernetic dragon, she’s thrust into a rebellion against a corporate-controlled regime. The novel’s blend of mecha anime vibes, diverse characters, and themes of resistance and media censorship earned it a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.
The companion novel, Renegade Flight (2021), shifts focus to Viola Park, a disgraced pilot-in-training navigating a high-stakes academy and a mystery involving missing peacekeepers. Set 12 years after Rebelwing, it deepens the series’ exploration of technology and legacy. Tang’s standalone works, like Kingdom of Without (2023), a heist tale in an alternate Beijing, and These Deadly Prophecies (2024), a Barnes & Noble YA Book Club pick, showcase her versatility, blending adventure with sharp social commentary.
Known for her snappy prose and inclusive casts, Tang draws inspiration from mecha anime like Gundam and films like Pacific Rim. Her stories tackle heavy themes—capitalism, censorship, and generational conflict—with a light touch, balancing thrilling action with witty banter and emotional depth.
Why Andrea Tang Matters
Andrea Tang’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that empower marginalized voices. Her diverse, queer, and POC characters aren’t sidekicks—they’re the heroes piloting dragons and sparking revolutions. This representation, rooted in her frustration with stereotypical portrayals in media, resonates deeply with young readers seeking heroes who reflect their identities.
Tang’s work also bridges genres, blending sci-fi spectacle with real-world issues like media control and political corruption. Her storytelling inspires teens to question authority and embrace their agency, making her a vital voice in YA literature. With her upcoming novel To the Death slated for 2026, Tang’s star continues to rise.
- Key Works: Rebelwing (2020), Renegade Flight (2021), Kingdom of Without (2023), These Deadly Prophecies (2024)
- Awards: Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection (Rebelwing), Barnes & Noble YA Book Club pick (These Deadly Prophecies)
- Hobbies: Brazilian jiu-jitsu, tae kwon do, live theater
Snag Rebelwing and dive into Andrea Tang’s thrilling world of mecha-dragons and rebellion!