Picture a Virginia storyteller who spins tales of teen angst, witty banter, and reimagined folklore—meet Ariel Kaplan! Born in California and raised in the lush landscapes of Virginia, Kaplan has carved a niche in young adult fiction with her sharp humor and heartfelt narratives. Her debut, Grendel’s Guide to Love and War, launched a career that blends coming-of-age struggles with clever social commentary, earning her a devoted following among teens and adults alike.
With a background in history, religious studies, and library science, Kaplan brings a unique lens to her storytelling. Her love for Jewish folklore and medieval Spain shines through in her fantasy works, while her playful voice captures the chaos of adolescence. Let’s dive into the world of Ariel Kaplan, where every story feels like a conversation with a witty best friend.
The Making of Ariel Kaplan
Ariel Kaplan was born in California but moved to Virginia at age seven, where she spent her childhood exploring woods and devouring folklore. Her passion for stories led her to the College of William and Mary, where she earned a B.A. in History and Religious Studies, followed by an MLS from Florida State University. These academic roots shaped her ability to weave historical and cultural threads into her narratives. Kaplan’s early love for sci-fi, fantasy, and reimagined folktales fueled her writing, and by 2017, she debuted as A.E. Kaplan with a novel that turned heads.
Ariel Kaplan’s Unforgettable Stories
Kaplan’s debut, Grendel’s Guide to Love and War (2017), is a heartfelt standalone novel tackling heavy themes like grief and community with humor and grace. It earned starred reviews and spots on best-of-the-year lists from Kirkus Reviews and Bank Street College. Her follow-up, We Regret to Inform You (2018), dives into the pressures of college admissions through Mischa, a teen whose Ivy League dreams unravel, blending laugh-out-loud moments with raw honesty.
In We Are the Perfect Girl (2019), Kaplan reimagines Cyrano de Bergerac with a feminist twist, exploring friendship and self-worth through a hilarious yet poignant teen deception. Her fantasy series, The Mirror Realm Cycle, including The Pomegranate Gate (2023) and The Republic of Salt (2024), draws on Jewish folklore and medieval Spain, crafting a magical world of intertwined destinies. Kaplan’s style—witty, warm, and layered with cultural depth—makes her stories resonate with readers seeking both entertainment and insight.
Whether she’s poking fun at societal expectations or weaving mythic tales, Kaplan’s voice is distinctly her own. Her ability to balance humor with serious themes like mental health and identity sets her apart in the YA genre, making her books both relatable and thought-provoking.
Why Ariel Kaplan Matters
Ariel Kaplan’s impact lies in her ability to make the messy, awkward parts of growing up feel universal. Her stories validate teens’ struggles while offering adults a nostalgic lens on youth. By normalizing therapy, celebrating female friendship, and exploring cultural heritage, Kaplan’s work fosters empathy and self-acceptance. Her fantasy novels introduce readers to Jewish folklore, enriching the genre with diverse narratives. With starred reviews and growing acclaim, Kaplan is a rising star whose stories continue to inspire.
- Born: California, raised in Virginia
- Key Works: Grendel’s Guide to Love and War, We Regret to Inform You, The Pomegranate Gate, The Republic of Salt
- Education: B.A. in History and Religious Studies, MLS from Florida State University
- Notable: Five starred reviews across her first two novels
Snag The Pomegranate Gate and dive into Ariel Kaplan’s enchanting blend of folklore and heart!