Picture a Philadelphia storyteller who brought a post-apocalyptic queer romance to life—meet Erik J. Brown! This rising star in Young Adult literature has captured hearts with his genre-blending novels, weaving authentic characters and heartfelt narratives that resonate with readers worldwide. From dystopian adventures to coming-of-age tales, Brown’s work is a fresh, vibrant addition to the YA scene.
The Making of Erik J. Brown
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Erik J. Brown’s creative spark ignited early. A 2009 graduate of Temple University with a degree in Film and Media Arts, he initially explored writing for media before diving into Young Adult fiction. Inspired by bold YA works like Patrick Ness’s The Knife of Never Letting Go, Brown found his calling in crafting stories that push boundaries and embrace diversity. His love for storytelling, paired with a knack for relatable characters, set the stage for his literary journey.
Erik J. Brown’s Unforgettable Stories
Brown’s debut novel, All That’s Left in the World (2022), is a post-apocalyptic queer romance that blends survivalism with a slow-burn love story. Following Andrew and Jamie, two teens navigating a world ravaged by a deadly pathogen, the book earned accolades like the UK Readers’ Choice Books Are My Bag Award and a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection. Its sharp pacing and emotional depth make it a standout, drawing comparisons to What If It’s Us and They Both Die at the End.
In 2023, Brown released Lose You to Find Me, a USA Today bestseller that shifts gears to a contemporary queer coming-of-age story. Centered on Tommy, a teen chef-in-training reconnecting with his childhood crush Gabe, the novel sparkles with humor, heart, and Taylor Swift references. Brown’s ability to balance lighthearted moments with deeper themes of identity and ambition shines through. The 2024 sequel, The Only Light Left Burning, continues Andrew and Jamie’s saga, cementing Brown’s knack for crafting compelling series.
Brown’s writing style is immersive and character-driven, blending romance, humor, and social commentary. His queer protagonists navigate love and self-discovery against vivid backdrops, from dystopian wastelands to retirement home kitchens. Themes of resilience, connection, and authenticity resonate with teens and adults alike, making his stories universally relatable.
Why Erik J. Brown Matters
Erik J. Brown is redefining Young Adult literature by centering queer voices in diverse genres. His work fills a gap in dystopian and contemporary YA, offering representation that feels raw and real. As a Lambda Literary Emerging Writers Fellow, Brown champions inclusivity, sparking empathy and imagination among readers. His growing fanbase and critical acclaim signal a bright future, with his stories inspiring a new generation to embrace their identities unapologetically.
- Key Works: All That’s Left in the World (2022), Lose You to Find Me (2023), The Only Light Left Burning (2024)
- Awards: UK Readers’ Choice Books Are My Bag Award, Junior Library Guild Gold Standard
- Fun Fact: Co-hosts the YA-OK podcast with Alyssa Ljub, diving into YA writing and publishing
About Erik J. Brown
Snag All That’s Left in the World and dive into Erik J. Brown’s captivating blend of romance and adventure!