Picture a Philadelphia-born storyteller who spun tales of witty teens and heartfelt sisterhood—meet Blair Thornburgh! With a knack for blending humor, literary flair, and relatable coming-of-age stories, Thornburgh has carved a niche in young adult fiction. Her novels, like Who’s That Girl and Ordinary Girls, capture the messy, magical moments of youth, earning her a devoted following among readers who crave smart, authentic narratives.
Born in the late 1980s, Thornburgh grew up in a vibrant Philly household, shouting made-up languages from backyard stumps and scaring feral cats. Her quirky upbringing and love for literature set the stage for a career that’s as colorful as her imagination. From medieval manuscripts to modern YA, Thornburgh’s journey is a testament to following one’s passions, no matter how eclectic.
The Making of Blair Thornburgh
Raised by preppy-turned-yuppie parents in Philadelphia, Blair Thornburgh’s early years were steeped in creativity and curiosity. Her love for storytelling bloomed alongside a fascination with dead languages, leading her to the University of Chicago, where she majored in Medieval Studies. There, she dove into translations and courtly love, writing a BA paper on the Old French Roman d’Enéas. After graduating in 2012, she delivered a commencement speech about her friends to thousands—an early hint of her knack for connecting with audiences. Thornburgh later earned an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Hamline University, honing her craft as a YA author.
Before becoming a full-fledged novelist, Thornburgh worked as an editor at Quirk Books, shaping breakout hits like Geekerella. Her publishing experience, paired with her academic background, gave her a unique lens for crafting stories that resonate with teens and adults alike. Her medieval studies even inspired her approach to YA, blending timeless themes like love and identity with modern wit.
Blair Thornburgh’s Unforgettable Stories
Thornburgh’s debut novel, Who’s That Girl (2017), is a fizzy YA romantic comedy about Nattie McCullough, a high school junior thrust into the spotlight when a hit song is written about her. Packed with snappy dialogue and Gilmore Girls-esque humor, it was named a Bank Street Best Book of the Year. Critics praised its optimistic charm and relatable characters, marking Thornburgh as a fresh voice in YA fiction.
Her sophomore novel, Ordinary Girls (2019), is a heartfelt riff on Sense and Sensibility, following sisters Plum and Ginny as they navigate family struggles, financial woes, and first love. Named a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2019 and an ALA Booklist Editors’ Choice, it shines for its nuanced take on sisterhood and literary banter. Thornburgh’s prose, often described as witty and understated, elevates everyday moments into profound coming-of-age tales.
Beyond YA, Thornburgh has penned picture books like Skulls! (2019), a playful ode to the human skull, and Second Banana (2020), a school play story about embracing small roles. Her versatility showcases her ability to craft stories that are both accessible and deeply thoughtful, appealing to readers of all ages.
Why Blair Thornburgh Matters
Blair Thornburgh’s work stands out in YA fiction for its authenticity and emotional depth. Her stories celebrate the ordinary—sibling rivalries, awkward crushes, and family quirks—while highlighting the extraordinary growth that comes with adolescence. By weaving literary references and sharp humor into her narratives, she appeals to readers who see themselves in her flawed, lovable characters. Her impact lies in making teens feel seen, reminding them that their “ordinary” lives are worthy of epic stories.
As an editor and adjunct faculty at Rosemont College, Thornburgh also shapes the next generation of writers, sharing her expertise in publishing and storytelling. Her unique blend of medieval scholarship and modern YA sensibilities makes her a distinctive voice, poised to leave a lasting mark on the genre.
- Born: Late 1980s, Philadelphia, PA
- Key Works: Who’s That Girl, Ordinary Girls, Skulls!, Second Banana
- Education: BA in Medieval Studies, University of Chicago; MFA, Hamline University
- Awards: Ordinary Girls (Publishers Weekly Best Book 2019, ALA Booklist Editors’ Choice)
Snag Ordinary Girls or Who’s That Girl and dive into Blair Thornburgh’s witty, heartfelt world of YA fiction!