Picture a Dominican-American storyteller who conjures ghosts, witches, and curly-haired heroes with a sprinkle of '80s pop culture magic—meet Claribel A. Ortega! A New York Times Bestselling author, Ortega has enchanted middle-grade and young adult readers with her vibrant fantasy novels, deeply rooted in her Dominican heritage. From her debut Ghost Squad to the award-winning graphic novel Frizzy, her stories blend spooky adventures, cultural authenticity, and heartfelt coming-of-age tales that resonate with readers worldwide.
Born and raised in the Bronx, Ortega’s journey from small-town reporter to literary star is as captivating as her books. With a knack for weaving magic into everyday life, she’s become a leading voice in children’s fantasy, celebrated for her diverse characters and playful nods to Ghostbusters and The Goonies.
The Making of Claribel A. Ortega
Claribel A. Ortega grew up in the bustling Bronx, New York, surrounded by the rich traditions of her Dominican family. Her childhood memories of catching fireflies with her late brother, who inspired the heartfelt folklore in Ghost Squad, shaped her love for storytelling. After studying journalism at SUNY Purchase, Ortega worked as a reporter, covering local board meetings and chatting with mayors about Starbucks lines. But her heart was in fantasy, fueled by her obsession with video games like Final Fantasy and '80s pop culture. This passion led her to pivot from journalism to writing novels that celebrate her heritage and the magic of childhood.
Claribel A. Ortega’s Unforgettable Stories
Ortega’s debut, Ghost Squad, is a New York Times Bestseller that blends Coco-style family dynamics with Ghostbusters-esque supernatural thrills. The story follows Lucely Luna, a girl whose ghostly ancestors live as fireflies, as she battles malicious spirits in St. Augustine. Critics praised its Dominican folklore and spooky charm, and it’s now being adapted into a feature film. Her Witchlings series, another NYT Bestseller, introduces a magical world where young witches face trials like the Golden Frog Games, tackling themes of friendship and classism with humor and heart.
In 2022, Ortega ventured into graphic novels with Frizzy, illustrated by Rose Bousamra. This Pura Belpré and Eisner Award-winning story follows Marlene, a Dominican girl embracing her natural curls despite societal pressures. Ortega’s visual storytelling shines, addressing anti-Blackness and generational beauty standards with warmth and authenticity. Her upcoming works, including a sapphic YA murder mystery steeped in Dominican folklore, promise to expand her enchanting repertoire.
Ortega’s style is a delightful mix of spooky, heartfelt, and fun, infused with Dominican mythology and pop culture references. Her characters—often young, diverse, and fiercely relatable—navigate real-world issues like grief and identity through magical lenses, making her books both entertaining and profound.
Why Claribel A. Ortega Matters
Claribel A. Ortega’s impact on middle-grade and young adult fantasy is undeniable. By centering Dominican culture and diverse voices, she’s carved a space for underrepresented readers to see themselves as heroes in fantastical worlds. Her stories resonate with kids and adults alike, offering comfort and adventure while addressing complex themes like loss and self-acceptance. As a Marvel contributor and co-host of the Bad Author Book Club podcast, Ortega also mentors aspiring writers, sharing her publishing journey with humor and candor. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of storytellers to embrace their roots and imaginations.
- Born: Bronx, New York
- Key Works: Ghost Squad, Witchlings, Frizzy, The Golden Frog Games
- Awards: 2023 Pura Belpré Award, 2023 Eisner Award, 2021 Ignyte Award
- Fun Fact: She lives with her poet boyfriend and a suspiciously clever Yorkie named Pancho.
Ready to dive into a world of ghosts, witches, and curly-haired magic? Snag Ghost Squad or Frizzy and let Claribel A. Ortega’s enchanting stories sweep you away!