Picture a storyteller who turned her love for gaming and Black culture into a literary phenomenon—meet Brittney Morris! This American author burst onto the young adult scene with her debut novel, SLAY, a vibrant celebration of Black identity that blends the thrill of virtual reality with the heart of real-world struggles. Inspired by the cultural juggernaut Black Panther, Morris crafts stories that resonate with teens and adults alike, tackling race, belonging, and empowerment with a gamer’s flair.
From her roots as a reluctant reader to becoming a voice for Black nerds (or ‘Blerds’), Morris’s journey is as inspiring as her books. Her work doesn’t just entertain—it sparks conversations about identity and safe spaces, making her a standout in contemporary YA fiction.
The Making of Brittney Morris
Brittney Morris grew up in Corvallis, Oregon, often feeling caught between worlds as one of the few Black kids in her small town. She faced pressure to be a ‘Black culture expert’ while navigating questions about her own identity, an experience that later fueled her writing. A self-professed gamer, she found solace in virtual worlds, mastering games like Super Mario Sunshine. After earning a BA in economics from Boston University, where she founded the Creative Writing Club, Morris traded financial aspirations for storytelling. Her love for gaming and NaNoWriMo’s creative rush set the stage for her literary career.
Brittney Morris’s Unforgettable Stories
Morris’s debut, SLAY (2019), is a love letter to Black gamers. It follows Kiera, a teen who creates a virtual reality game called SLAY, a safe space for Black players to duel with cards inspired by Black culture—like ‘Twist-Out’ and ‘Shea Butter.’ When a real-world tragedy linked to the game thrusts Kiera into the spotlight, she must defend her creation against accusations of racism. The novel’s immersive world-building and raw exploration of Black identity earned it starred reviews and a spot on the New York Public Library’s Top Ten Best Books of 2019.
Morris followed with The Cost of Knowing (2021), a poignant tale of two Black brothers—one who sees the future, another the past—grappling with toxic masculinity and systemic violence. She also penned Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales – Wings of Fury (2020), a tie-in novel showcasing her knack for action-packed narratives. Her latest, The Jump (2023), dives into tech-savvy adventures, cementing her reputation for blending speculative fiction with social commentary. Morris’s style is vivid, accessible, and unapologetically Black, weaving humor, heart, and cultural nuance into every page.
Why Brittney Morris Matters
Brittney Morris’s impact lies in her ability to amplify marginalized voices, particularly Black teens navigating a world that often misunderstands them. Through SLAY, she created a fictional safe space that mirrors real-world needs, sparking discussions about inclusivity in gaming and beyond. Her stories celebrate the diversity of the Black diaspora, showing that Blackness is not a monolith but a vibrant kaleidoscope. For young readers, especially Blerds, Morris is a beacon, proving they can be heroes in their own stories.
Her influence extends to her work in video game narratives, including Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Subnautica: Below Zero, where she brings her signature cultural depth. Morris’s books don’t just sit on shelves—they inspire readers to embrace their identities and challenge stereotypes, making her a vital voice in YA literature.
- Born: Corvallis, Oregon
- Key Works: SLAY, The Cost of Knowing, The Jump, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales – Wings of Fury
- Notable Recognition: New York Public Library Top Ten Best Books (2019) for SLAY, Publishers Weekly starred reviews
- Fun Fact: She’s a four-time NaNoWriMo winner!
Ready to dive into a world where Black excellence meets geek culture? Grab SLAY and let Brittney Morris’s vibrant storytelling sweep you away!