Picture a Los Angeles storyteller who swapped animation studios for bestselling bookshelves—meet Elissa Sussman! This young adult and romance novelist has captured hearts with her witty, heartfelt tales, from the magical fairy tale of Stray to the TikTok sensation Funny You Should Ask. With a knack for blending humor, romance, and real emotion, Sussman’s stories are as vibrant as the city she calls home.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Sussman’s journey from childhood journals to bestselling author is a testament to her lifelong love for storytelling. Her unique path through the animation world and her passion for crafting swoon-worthy narratives make her a standout voice in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Elissa Sussman
Elissa Sussman’s story began in the sunny sprawl of Los Angeles, where she grew up with a pen in hand and a head full of stories. As a child, she scribbled journals and penned poetry, inspired by books like Anne Frank’s The Diary of a Young Girl. Her creative spark led her to Sarah Lawrence College for a BA and later to Pacific University for an MFA. Before becoming a novelist, Sussman thrived in the animation industry, managing animators and organizing spreadsheets at studios like Nickelodeon, Disney, DreamWorks, and Sony Imageworks. Her name graces the credits of beloved films like The Croods, Hotel Transylvania, The Princess and the Frog, and Tangled. This behind-the-scenes experience in storytelling laid the foundation for her literary career.
Elissa Sussman’s Unforgettable Stories
Sussman’s debut novel, Stray (2014), introduced her as a bold voice in young adult fiction. This fairy-tale-inspired tale follows Princess Aislynn, a young woman grappling with a magical curse in a dystopian world. Blending elements of The Handmaid’s Tale and Wicked, it’s a coming-of-age story wrapped in adventure and romance. Its companion, Burn, continues the saga with the same enchanting mix of magic and rebellion.
In 2021, Sussman released Drawn That Way, a YA novel that channels her animation background. The story follows Hayley Saffitz, a teen navigating the male-dominated world of animation, delivering a feminist punch with humor and heart. Her adult romance debut, Funny You Should Ask (2022), became a bestseller, fueled by TikTok buzz. This second-chance romance follows journalist Chani Horowitz and movie star Gabe Parker over a whirlwind weekend and a decade-later reunion, sparkling with witty banter and Hollywood glamour. Her follow-up, Once More with Feeling (2023), explores a former pop star’s rekindled romance, cementing Sussman’s knack for swoony, emotional tales.
Sussman’s writing style is a delightful blend of sharp dialogue, relatable characters, and vivid settings. Whether she’s crafting magical YA worlds or steamy adult romances, her stories explore themes of self-discovery, love, and resilience, resonating with readers across genres.
Why Elissa Sussman Matters
Elissa Sussman’s impact lies in her ability to bridge genres and generations. Her YA novels empower young readers with stories of strong, flawed heroines, while her adult romances offer escapist joy with emotional depth. Her transition from animation to authorship inspires aspiring writers, showing that diverse experiences can shape a unique creative voice. By ghostwriting romances before penning her own, Sussman honed a craft that’s both accessible and authentic, earning her a loyal following and critical praise.
In a world craving connection, Sussman’s stories remind us of the power of love, courage, and second chances. Her work continues to shape the romance and YA genres, making her a must-read for fans of heartfelt storytelling.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: Stray (2014), Funny You Should Ask (2022), Once More with Feeling (2023), Drawn That Way (2021)
- Education: BA from Sarah Lawrence College, MFA from Pacific University
- Fun Fact: Her dogs, Basil and Mozzarella, are her furry writing companions!
Ready to fall in love with Elissa Sussman’s world? Snag Funny You Should Ask for a dose of Hollywood romance or dive into Stray for a magical adventure!