Picture a Brooklyn storyteller who spins tales of family, love, and life’s quirky moments—meet Emma Straub! Born in 1980 in New York City, this New York Times-bestselling author has charmed readers with her witty, heartfelt novels like The Vacationers and This Time Tomorrow. With a knack for capturing the messy beauty of human relationships, Straub’s work feels like a warm hug from a friend who gets it.
As the daughter of horror novelist Peter Straub, Emma grew up surrounded by stories, but she’s carved her own path with a voice that’s distinctly hers—funny, tender, and wise. Beyond writing, she co-owns Books Are Magic, a beloved Brooklyn bookstore, making her a literary hero in her community.
The Making of Emma Straub
Emma Straub’s journey began on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, where she was steeped in creativity from a young age. Her father’s success as a horror writer didn’t intimidate her; instead, it fueled her drive to tell stories. After graduating from Oberlin College and earning an MFA from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Straub honed her craft, drawing inspiration from authors like Lorrie Moore. Her early career included stints as an editor and bookseller, roles that shaped her deep love for literature and community.
Despite four unpublished novels and countless rejections, Straub’s persistence paid off. Her breakthrough came with her 2012 debut, Laura Lamont’s Life in Pictures, a novel inspired by Hollywood’s golden age, proving she could weave compelling tales outside her New York roots.
Emma Straub’s Unforgettable Stories
Straub’s novels are like a sunny afternoon with a side of soul-searching—accessible yet profound. Her 2014 hit, The Vacationers, follows a family’s drama-filled trip to Mallorca, blending humor with sharp insights into love and secrets. Modern Lovers (2016) dives into the lives of two Brooklyn couples, exploring midlife crises with a soundtrack of wit and nostalgia.
Her 2022 novel, This Time Tomorrow, is a poignant time-travel story about a daughter reconnecting with her father, earning praise for its emotional depth and 1990s vibes. Straub’s short story collection, Other People We Married, showcases her ability to craft intimate, character-driven tales. She’s also ventured into children’s literature with picture books like Very Good Hats, proving her versatility. Her style—warm, observant, and laced with humor—makes her stories universally relatable, whether set in Brooklyn or beyond.
Critics and readers alike adore Straub’s ability to balance lighthearted storytelling with deeper themes like grief, identity, and family ties. Her work, translated into over 20 languages, resonates globally, and All Adults Here is even in development as a TV series.
Why Emma Straub Matters
Emma Straub’s impact goes beyond her page-turners. Her novels capture the nuances of modern life, offering readers a mirror to reflect on their own relationships. By centering women’s voices and marginalized writers at Books Are Magic, she’s a champion for diversity in literature. Her 2024 Guggenheim Fellowship cements her as a literary force, and her ability to blend humor with heartache has made her a go-to author for fans of contemporary fiction.
Straub’s bookstore, with two Brooklyn locations, is a cultural hub, hosting events that foster community and creativity. Her work reminds us that even in life’s chaos, there’s beauty in connection and second chances.
About Emma Straub
- Born: 1980, New York City
- Key Works: This Time Tomorrow, The Vacationers, Modern Lovers, All Adults Here
- Awards: 2024 Guggenheim Fellowship
- Fun Fact: Co-owns Books Are Magic, a feminist-focused bookstore in Brooklyn
Ready to fall in love with Emma Straub’s world? Grab This Time Tomorrow and dive into her heartfelt, hilarious take on life!