Picture a Southern storyteller who spun a magical tale of friendship and first love—meet Andrew Eliopulos! This young adult fiction author and HarperCollins executive editor has captured hearts with his debut novel, The Fascinators, a queer-friendly fantasy that blends magic with the messiness of teenage life. From his roots in small-town Georgia to his vibrant life in Brooklyn, Eliopulos crafts stories that resonate with readers craving authentic LGBTQ+ representation.
With a knack for weaving diverse voices into compelling narratives, Eliopulos has become a rising star in YA literature. His work as both an author and editor champions inclusivity, making him a unique force in publishing. Ready to dive into his enchanting world? Let’s explore the journey of Andrew Eliopulos!
The Making of Andrew Eliopulos
Born and raised in Newnan, Georgia, Andrew Eliopulos grew up in a conservative small town where he often felt like an outsider. As a closeted queer youth, he found solace in fantasy literature like The Lord of the Rings and the surreal works of Edgar Allan Poe. These stories fueled his imagination, sparking a lifelong passion for storytelling. After earning a degree in Germanic Studies from the University of Chicago, Eliopulos moved to New York, where he now lives with his husband.
His career began at HarperCollins, where he climbed the ranks to become an executive editor. Working on award-winning titles like Jerry Craft’s New Kid, Eliopulos honed his editorial eye while nurturing his own writing. His early experiences in Georgia, coupled with his love for escapist fiction, laid the foundation for his unique voice in young adult literature.
Andrew Eliopulos’s Unforgettable Stories
Eliopulos’s debut YA novel, The Fascinators (2020), is a magical coming-of-age story set in a small Georgia town where magic is both commonplace and frowned upon. The novel follows Sam, who navigates unrequited love for his friend James, alongside their friend Delia, as they practice spells in their school’s magic club. Praised for its witty banter and heartfelt exploration of queer and religious themes, the book is an #OwnVoices title that resonates with fans of Rainbow Rowell and Becky Albertalli.
Before The Fascinators, Eliopulos wrote The Spider Ring (2015), a middle-grade novel about a magical ring that grants wishes with a creepy twist. His 2023 release, Will on the Inside, tackles the emotional journey of a teen grappling with identity and chronic illness, showcasing Eliopulos’s knack for blending real-world struggles with hope. His writing style—character-driven, emotionally rich, and laced with magical realism—creates worlds where readers feel seen and understood.
Eliopulos’s stories often explore themes of friendship, identity, and the courage to embrace one’s truth. His Georgia upbringing infuses his settings with authenticity, while his focus on LGBTQ+ representation offers a fresh perspective in YA fiction. Whether it’s the thrill of casting spells or the ache of a first crush, Eliopulos’s narratives capture the magic of growing up.
Why Andrew Eliopulos Matters
Andrew Eliopulos is more than an author—he’s a trailblazer for diverse storytelling. As an openly queer writer, he brings much-needed representation to YA literature, crafting characters who navigate love, faith, and self-discovery in ways that feel both universal and deeply personal. His work challenges stereotypes and invites readers to embrace their own identities, making him a vital voice in contemporary fiction.
As an editor, Eliopulos amplifies other diverse authors, shaping the future of children’s literature. His dual role as creator and curator ensures that stories like his reach wider audiences, fostering empathy and inclusion. In a world where representation matters, Eliopulos’s contributions are nothing short of magical.
- Born: Newnan, Georgia
- Key Works: The Spider Ring (2015), The Fascinators (2020), Will on the Inside (2023)
- Awards: The Spider Ring was a CBC Children’s Choices Reading List Pick and Grand Canyon Reader Award nominee
- Current Home: Brooklyn, New York, with his husband
About Andrew Eliopulos
Snag The Fascinators and dive into Andrew Eliopulos’s spellbinding world of magic, love, and friendship!