Picture a storyteller who spun a heartfelt coming-of-age tale that became a Sundance-winning film—meet Emily M. Danforth! Born in the rugged plains of Miles City, Montana, this American author crafts novels that dive deep into identity, queerness, and the messy beauty of growing up. With a knack for blending raw emotion with sharp wit, Danforth has carved a unique space in contemporary literature.
From her debut novel to her gothic-horror sophomore hit, Danforth’s work resonates with readers who crave authentic, boundary-pushing stories. Let’s explore her journey, her unforgettable books, and why she’s a voice that matters.
The Making of Emily M. Danforth
Emily M. Danforth was born on January 17, 1980, in Miles City, Montana—a cattle town famous for its wild Bucking Horse Sale. Growing up in this close-knit community shaped her storytelling, infusing it with a sense of place and resilience. She attended Hofstra University, where she came out as queer, a pivotal moment that would later influence her writing. Danforth went on to earn an MFA in Fiction from the University of Montana and a Ph.D. in English-Creative Writing from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Before settling in Providence, Rhode Island, with her wife, Erica, she worked as a lifeguard, bartender, and even a less-than-stellar waitress—experiences that likely honed her keen eye for human quirks.
Emily M. Danforth’s Unforgettable Stories
Danforth burst onto the literary scene in 2012 with The Miseducation of Cameron Post, a young adult novel that’s as heartfelt as it is bold. Set in 1990s Montana, it follows Cameron, a queer teen navigating loss and a gay conversion therapy camp. The book’s unflinching look at identity and resilience earned it the Montana Book Award, a Lambda Literary Award finalist spot, and a 2018 film adaptation starring Chloë Grace Moretz that won the Sundance Grand Jury Prize.
In 2020, Danforth switched gears with Plain Bad Heroines, her first adult novel. This sapphic gothic-comedy-horror blend weaves two timelines: a cursed 1902 Rhode Island boarding school and a modern-day film adaptation of its eerie history. With illustrations by Sara Lautman, it’s a meta romp that earned praise from The Washington Post and was named a top LGBTQIA book by the American Library Association. Danforth’s style—rich with humor, queer joy, and a touch of the macabre—makes her stories both accessible and profound.
Her short fiction and nonfiction have also shone, winning awards like the International Queer Writing Award and appearing on NPR’s All Things Considered. Whether she’s tackling YA or adult fiction, Danforth’s work centers queer experiences with authenticity and heart.
Why Emily M. Danforth Matters
Emily M. Danforth’s impact lies in her ability to tell stories that feel like a warm hug and a fearless battle cry. Her exploration of queer identity in conservative settings has given countless readers—especially young ones—a mirror to see themselves and a window into empathy. Her teaching at Rhode Island College, where she shapes aspiring writers, extends her influence further. By blending genres like gothic horror and coming-of-age, she’s redefined what queer literature can be, earning a loyal following and critical acclaim.
In a world that often demands conformity, Danforth’s stories celebrate individuality and resilience, making her a vital voice in American literature. Her work continues to inspire readers to embrace their truths, no matter the odds.
- Born: January 17, 1980, Miles City, Montana
- Key Works: The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2012), Plain Bad Heroines (2020)
- Awards: Montana Book Award (2012), Sundance Grand Jury Prize (2018, film adaptation)
- Fun Fact: She’s obsessed with collecting vintage erasers and snow globes!
Snag The Miseducation of Cameron Post or dive into the deliciously spooky Plain Bad Heroines to experience Emily M. Danforth’s unforgettable storytelling!