Picture an American storyteller who weaves witty dialogue and heartfelt friendships into young adult novels—meet Emma “Elmify” Mills! Known for her vibrant YouTube channel Elmify and her poignant contemporary romances, Mills has captured the hearts of teens with stories like First & Then and This Adventure Ends. Her unique blend of digital savvy and literary talent makes her a standout in today’s YA scene.
Born on March 20, 1989, Mills is more than a writer—she’s a scientist with a Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology, a vlogger, and a Nutella enthusiast. Living in St. Louis, Missouri, with her dog Teddy, she balances editing scientific manuscripts with crafting novels that resonate with today’s youth.
The Making of Emma “Elmify” Mills
Emma Mills grew up with a passion for storytelling, starting her debut novel First & Then in high school and finishing it in college. Her love for Jane Austen and E.L. Konigsburg shaped her narrative style, infusing her work with sharp wit and emotional depth. While pursuing her Ph.D. at Indiana University, she co-created the YouTube channel “How to Adult” with T. Michael Martin, offering life skills advice. In 2017, they sold the channel to Complexly, allowing Mills to focus on her vlog channel Elmify, where her authentic voice shines.
Emma “Elmify” Mills’s Unforgettable Stories
Mills’s novels are a masterclass in YA contemporary romance, blending humor, heart, and relatable characters. Her debut, First & Then (2015), follows Devon Tennyson, a high school senior navigating love and family drama with a Jane Austen-inspired twist. Kirkus Reviews praised its “wickedly inventive language” and football-infused romance. This Adventure Ends (2016) explores Sloane Finch’s journey through intense friendships in Florida, inspired by Konigsburg’s The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. The novel’s witty dialogue and character-driven plot earned widespread acclaim.
Foolish Hearts (2017) dives into high school dynamics with a nod to Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, weaving blossoming friendships and tentative romances. Her 2023 fantasy debut, Something Close to Magic, marks a new direction, blending fairy-tale settings with her signature charm. School Library Journal called it a “breezy novel” with a charismatic cast. Mills’s style—vivid characters, taut dialogue, and themes of trust and connection—makes her stories universally appealing.
Why Emma “Elmify” Mills Matters
Emma Mills has redefined YA literature by bringing authentic, digital-age voices to the page. Her novels resonate with teens navigating love, friendship, and self-discovery, offering a refreshing take on coming-of-age stories. Through Elmify, she connects with fans, sharing her creative process and quirky personality, which amplifies her influence. Mills’s ability to balance science, vlogging, and writing inspires young creators, proving you can excel in multiple passions.
Her work has earned starred reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly, with Lucky Caller lauded for its “bittersweet comedy” and vivid characters. By tackling universal themes with humor and heart, Mills has carved a niche in YA literature, leaving a lasting impact on readers and aspiring writers alike.
- Birth Date: March 20, 1989
- Key Works: First & Then, This Adventure Ends, Foolish Hearts, Something Close to Magic
- Notable Achievement: Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology
Ready to dive into Emma “Elmify” Mills’s world? Snag First & Then or This Adventure Ends and get swept away by her witty, heartwarming YA tales!