Picture a Caribbean storyteller weaving tales where aliens land in the U.S. Virgin Islands and monsters roam among us—meet Cadwell Turnbull! This science fiction and fantasy author, born in Maryland but raised in St. Thomas, has captured readers with his vibrant narratives that blend speculative wonder with deep sociopolitical themes. From his award-winning debut to his growing saga, Turnbull’s work is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
The Making of Cadwell Turnbull
Born on August 12, 1987, Cadwell Turnbull moved to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, at just one month old, where the island’s rich culture and colonial history shaped his worldview. Growing up, he wasn’t a voracious reader but found inspiration in sci-fi TV shows like Star Trek, sparking philosophical discussions with his mother. His passion for writing bloomed at Charlotte Amalie High School, where he won essay contests and dabbled in short stories. Turnbull pursued a BA in Professional Writing at La Roche University in Pittsburgh, followed by an MFA in Creative Writing and an MA in Linguistics at North Carolina State University. A 2016 Clarion West Writers Workshop graduate, he honed his craft under mentors like John Kessel, setting the stage for his literary ascent.
Cadwell Turnbull’s Unforgettable Stories
Turnbull’s debut novel, The Lesson (2019), is a groundbreaking sci-fi tale set in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where the alien Ynaa’s arrival mirrors colonial oppression, exploring themes of power and resistance. Praised for its vibrant characters and Octavia Butler-esque depth, it won the 2020 Neukom Institute Literary Award. His second novel, No Gods, No Monsters (2021), kicks off the Convergence Saga, blending urban fantasy with social commentary on police violence and marginalization, earning a Lambda Award. The saga continues with We Are the Crisis (2023), a Kirkus Reviews standout tackling monster-human tensions. Turnbull’s short stories, like “Loneliness Is in Your Blood” and “Jump,” have appeared in top magazines, cementing his versatile voice. His writing, infused with Caribbean dialect and sociopolitical insight, draws from Ursula Le Guin and Ted Chiang, creating intimate yet expansive narratives.
Why Cadwell Turnbull Matters
Cadwell Turnbull is redefining speculative fiction by centering Caribbean perspectives and Black characters in stories that tackle universal issues like colonialism, climate change, and identity. His work resonates with readers seeking fresh voices in sci-fi and fantasy, earning accolades from NPR, The New York Times, and Kirkus Reviews. By grounding fantastical tales in the lived realities of the Virgin Islands, Turnbull not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on power dynamics and resilience, making him a vital voice in contemporary literature.
- Born: August 12, 1987
- Key Works: The Lesson, No Gods, No Monsters, We Are the Crisis
- Awards: 2020 Neukom Institute Literary Award, Lambda Award
- Influences: Ursula Le Guin, Octavia Butler, Ted Chiang
Ready to explore alien invasions and monster-filled sagas? Snag The Lesson or dive into the Convergence Saga to experience Cadwell Turnbull’s captivating sci-fi world!