Picture a Jewish-American storyteller who turned heartfelt teen tales into a cultural phenomenon—meet Becky Albertalli! Born and raised in Atlanta, this former psychologist weaves humor, identity, and romance into her young adult novels, capturing the messy beauty of adolescence. Her debut, Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, didn’t just win awards—it sparked a movie, a TV series, and a legion of fans.
Albertalli’s stories resonate because they’re grounded in real emotions, drawn from her years working with teens. With a knack for authentic dialogue and inclusive themes, she’s become a beacon in contemporary YA fiction, inviting readers to embrace their true selves.
The Making of Becky Albertalli
Born Rebecca Goldstein on November 17, 1982, in Atlanta, Georgia, Albertalli grew up in a Reform Jewish household with her sister Caroline and brother Sam. Her love for storytelling bloomed early, crafting animal tales in preschool and directing dramatic plays by age 12. After majoring in psychology at Wesleyan University, she earned a Doctor of Psychology from George Washington University. As a clinical psychologist, she worked with LGBTQ+ teens and co-led a support group for gender-nonconforming children in Washington, D.C., experiences that later shaped her empathetic narratives.
After her first son, Owen, was born in 2012, Albertalli paused her psychology career and seized the chance to write. Inspired by her love for YA literature and her work with teens, she penned her first novel, pitching it at a 2013 Atlanta writing conference. That leap led to a two-book deal, launching her literary journey.
Becky Albertalli’s Unforgettable Stories
Albertalli’s debut, Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda (2015), follows Simon Spier, a not-so-openly gay teen navigating love and blackmail. Its witty dialogue and heartfelt coming-out story earned a William C. Morris Award and a National Book Award longlist spot, later inspiring the 2018 film Love, Simon and the series Love, Victor. The Simonverse continued with Leah on the Offbeat (2018), a bisexual teen’s tale of love and friendship, which snagged a Goodreads Choice Award, and Love, Creekwood (2020), a novella epilogue.
Her standalone novel The Upside of Unrequited (2017) dives into Molly’s journey with unrequited crushes and self-acceptance, earning a spot on the American Library Association’s Rainbow List. Co-written with Adam Silvera, What If It’s Us (2018) and its sequel Here’s to Us (2021) blend humor and romance in a New York City love story. Albertalli’s 2023 novel, Imogen, Obviously, a New York Times bestseller, explores identity through a straight ally’s unexpected self-discovery. Her style—playful, inclusive, and emotionally raw—mirrors the complexities of teen life.
Why Becky Albertalli Matters
Albertalli’s impact on YA literature lies in her authentic portrayal of queer and diverse identities, challenging norms like “straight as the default.” Her novels offer hope and visibility, resonating with teens and adults alike. By donating proceeds from Love, Creekwood to The Trevor Project, she supports LGBTQ+ youth beyond the page. Her work has redefined YA romance, making it a space for everyone’s story.
Albertalli’s background in psychology infuses her characters with depth, sparking conversations about identity, mental health, and acceptance. Her books are cultural touchstones, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of modern teens while inspiring a more inclusive literary landscape.
- Born: November 17, 1982, Atlanta, Georgia
- Key Works: Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, Leah on the Offbeat, Imogen, Obviously
- Awards: William C. Morris Award (2016), Goodreads Choice Award (2018)
Snag Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and dive into Becky Albertalli’s heartfelt YA world—where every teen’s story shines!