Picture a storyteller who spun tales of love, identity, and acceptance, reshaping young adult literature with heart and courage—meet David Levithan! Born in New Jersey in 1972, this American author and editor has become a beacon for LGBTQ+ representation, crafting novels like Boy Meets Boy that dare to dream of a world where love knows no bounds.
With a knack for capturing the messy beauty of teenage life, Levithan’s work blends humor, heartache, and hope. His stories don’t just entertain—they challenge norms and give voice to those often sidelined, making him a beloved figure in contemporary fiction.
The Making of David Levithan
Raised in Short Hills, New Jersey, in a Jewish family, David Levithan’s love for stories bloomed early. A 1990 graduate of Millburn High School, he landed an internship at Scholastic Corporation at just nineteen, diving into the world of The Baby-Sitters Club. This early gig sparked a lifelong passion for young adult literature, leading him to become an editorial director at Scholastic and the founding editor of PUSH, an imprint dedicated to new voices.
Levithan’s own writing began as a way to fill gaps he saw in teen fiction. Frustrated by the lack of joyful, authentic LGBTQ+ stories, he set out to create the books he wished existed—ones where queer teens could be happy, in love, and unapologetically themselves.
David Levithan’s Unforgettable Stories
Levithan’s debut, Boy Meets Boy (2003), was a game-changer. This romantic comedy, set in a utopian town where a drag queen is the homecoming queen, follows Paul’s sweet romance with Noah. Its bold celebration of queer love earned praise as a revolutionary work in YA fiction. Two Boys Kissing (2013) is equally powerful, weaving the lives of eight boys around a record-breaking kiss, narrated by a chorus of AIDS victims. It’s a haunting yet hopeful exploration of love and loss.
Collaborations like Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist (2006) with Rachel Cohn, later adapted into a 2008 film, showcase Levithan’s playful side, blending music and romance. His Every Day trilogy (2012–2018) pushes boundaries further, following A, a spirit who wakes up in a new body daily, navigating love and identity across genders and lives. Levithan’s style—lyrical, introspective, and inclusive—makes complex themes accessible, inviting readers to question societal norms.
Through his work, Levithan tackles love, identity, and belonging with a light touch that never feels preachy. His characters, whether gay, trans, or questioning, are fully human, avoiding stereotypes and embracing nuance.
Why David Levithan Matters
David Levithan’s impact on young adult literature is undeniable. By centering LGBTQ+ voices, he’s given countless teens stories that reflect their realities, fostering empathy and acceptance. His books, honored with six Lambda Literary Award nominations and the 2016 Margaret A. Edwards Award, have reshaped the genre, proving queer narratives can be mainstream and celebrated. As an editor, his PUSH imprint has launched authors like Suzanne Collins, amplifying diverse voices.
Levithan’s legacy lies in his fearless storytelling and commitment to inclusivity, inspiring readers and writers to embrace their truths. In a world still grappling with acceptance, his work remains a vital force for change.
About David Levithan
- Born: September 7, 1972, in New Jersey
- Key Works: Boy Meets Boy, Two Boys Kissing, Every Day, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist
- Awards: Margaret A. Edwards Award (2016), Michael L. Printz Award for The Collectors: Stories (2024)
- Role: Editorial Director at Scholastic, Founder of PUSH Imprint
Snag Boy Meets Boy or Two Boys Kissing and dive into David Levithan’s heartfelt, boundary-breaking world of young adult fiction!