Picture a storyteller who spins tales of magic, gaming, and heartfelt rivalries—meet Eric Smith! This American author, literary agent, and blogger from Elizabeth, New Jersey, first charmed readers with his witty non-fiction guide, The Geek’s Guide to Dating, before diving into the vibrant world of young adult fiction. With a knack for blending fantasy, romance, and real-world issues, Eric’s work captures the hearts of teens and adults alike.
As a literary agent with P.S. Literary, Eric nurtures diverse voices, helping shape the future of publishing. His dual role as writer and advocate makes him a unique figure in the literary scene, crafting stories that resonate while championing new talent.
The Making of Eric Smith
Born and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Eric Smith grew up with a passion for storytelling. As a child, he hammered out short stories on an electric typewriter, sharing them with friends. His love for books and geek culture—think Star Trek and Pokémon—shaped his creative spark. After studying English, Eric landed at Quirk Books, working on titles like Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. This publishing experience fueled his leap into writing, culminating in his 2013 debut, The Geek’s Guide to Dating, an IndieBound bestseller that blended humor with heartfelt advice.
Eric Smith’s Unforgettable Stories
Eric’s writing spans genres, from non-fiction to young adult fantasy and rom-coms, all infused with vibrant characters and relatable themes. His debut, The Geek’s Guide to Dating, offers a playful guide for geeks navigating love, packed with pop culture references. His first YA novel, Inked, kicks off a fantasy duology where magical tattoos dictate destiny, praised for its fast-paced magic and vivid world-building.
Don’t Read the Comments, a YALSA 2021 Best Fiction pick, tackles online harassment through the story of Divya, a gamer facing doxxing, blending gaming culture with real-world stakes. Meanwhile, With or Without You, a 2023 rom-com, pits rival cheesesteak truck teens against each other in a deliciously fun feud. Eric also co-edited anthologies like Battle of the Bands, weaving music and youth culture into collaborative storytelling.
His style shines with accessible prose, diverse characters, and themes of identity, belonging, and resilience, often reflecting his advocacy for marginalized voices. Whether crafting fantasy or contemporary tales, Eric’s stories feel like a warm chat with a friend who gets you.
Why Eric Smith Matters
Eric Smith’s impact stretches beyond his books. As a literary agent, he amplifies underrepresented authors, fostering inclusivity in publishing. His novels, like Don’t Read the Comments, spark conversations about online culture and empowerment, resonating with teens navigating digital spaces. His anthologies, like First-Year Orientation, support youth centers by donating royalties, blending storytelling with social good.
Eric’s ability to juggle writing, agenting, and advocacy makes him a literary powerhouse. His work inspires readers to embrace their quirks, fight for their dreams, and find magic in everyday moments, cementing his place as a beloved YA voice.
- Born: Elizabeth, New Jersey
- Key Works: The Geek’s Guide to Dating, Inked, Don’t Read the Comments, With or Without You
- Awards: YALSA 2021 Best Fiction for Don’t Read the Comments, Junior Library Guild selection for With or Without You
- Fun Fact: Eric co-hosts the HEY YA! podcast, dishing on YA lit.
Snag Don’t Read the Comments or With or Without You and dive into Eric Smith’s heartfelt, geeky world!