Picture a storyteller who turned a childhood escape into a groundbreaking sci-fi and horror saga—meet David W. Wright! As the co-author of the bestselling Yesterday's Gone series, Wright has captivated readers with his knack for blending post-apocalyptic thrills with TV-style storytelling. From doodling comics to topping Amazon charts, his journey is a testament to the digital publishing revolution.
The Making of David W. Wright
Growing up on the East Coast, David W. Wright found solace in stories amidst a childhood marked by bullies and few friends. Inspired by icons like Stephen King, Clive Barker, and cartoonist Bill Watterson, he spent his school days dreaming of crafting worlds where others could find refuge. Before becoming a full-time author, Wright worked retail and clerical jobs, all while nurturing his passion for writing and cartooning. His early online comic strip, Todd and Penguin, ran for nearly a decade, laying the groundwork for his storytelling prowess.
David W. Wright’s Unforgettable Stories
Wright’s breakthrough came in 2011 with Yesterday's Gone, co-authored with Sean Platt. This post-apocalyptic serial, structured like a TV show with 'episodes' and 'seasons,' redefined digital storytelling. The series follows survivors navigating a world where most of humanity vanishes, blending elements of The Stand and LOST with alien intrigue. Its success led to multiple seasons and a devoted fanbase, with characters like the witty yet sinister Boricio Wolfe stealing the spotlight.
Beyond Yesterday's Gone, Wright’s bibliography spans diverse genres. With Platt, he penned series like WhiteSpace, a paranoid sci-fi thriller, and No Justice, a vigilante saga. Standalone novels like Crash, optioned for a film, showcase his ability to weave suspense with emotional depth. His writing style—fast-paced, character-driven, and laced with cliffhangers—keeps readers hooked, while his collaborative process with Platt highlights his plotting genius.
Wright’s work extends to non-fiction with Into the Darkness, reflecting on how stories provided an escape from his youth. His podcast, The Story Studio, co-hosted with Platt and Johnny B. Truant, offers insights into the indie publishing world, cementing his role as a mentor to aspiring authors.
Why David W. Wright Matters
David W. Wright’s impact lies in his pioneering approach to serialized fiction. By embracing e-books as a medium for TV-like narratives, he and Platt challenged traditional publishing norms, proving that indie authors could rival mainstream giants. Their success with Yesterday's Gone inspired a wave of serialized storytelling, making complex narratives accessible to digital readers. Wright’s stories, filled with flawed yet relatable characters, resonate with those seeking escapism, much like he did as a child.
His journey from a bullied kid to a bestselling author inspires aspiring writers, showing that persistence and innovation can break barriers. As a cartoonist, podcaster, and storyteller, Wright continues to shape the indie publishing landscape, encouraging creators to take risks and tell stories that matter.
- Born: East Coast, USA (exact date unavailable)
- Key Works: Yesterday's Gone, WhiteSpace, No Justice, Crash
- Notable Collaboration: Co-author with Sean Platt
- Fun Fact: Lives with his wife, son, and 'the world’s most poopingest cat'
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag Yesterday's Gone: Season One and dive into David W. Wright’s pulse-pounding world of sci-fi and horror!