Picture a Houston-born storyteller who spun magic from the heart of the Third Ward—meet J. Elle! This New York Times bestselling author burst onto the young adult fantasy scene with her electrifying debut, Wings of Ebony, a tale of Black Girl Magic that blends gritty realism with mythical wonder. With a passion for empowering youth and a knack for crafting fierce heroines, Elle’s stories resonate with readers craving diverse, unapologetic narratives.
The Making of J. Elle
J. Elle grew up in Houston’s vibrant Third Ward, raised by a single mother in a tight-knit community that shaped her storytelling. A first-generation college graduate with a journalism degree and a master’s in educational administration, she spent years as an educator, from preschool to high school, mentoring young writers. Inspired by her roots and the lack of urban Black heroines in fantasy, Elle began writing to fill that gap, channeling her love for Black Panther and Wonder Woman into her work.
J. Elle’s Unforgettable Stories
Elle’s debut, Wings of Ebony (2021), follows Rue, a Black teen from a fictionalized Third Ward who discovers she’s half-goddess. Torn between Houston’s East Row and the magical island of Ghizon, Rue battles systemic racism and gods bent on destruction. Critics, including NPR, praised its poignant blend of Afro-futurism and social commentary. Its sequel, Ashes of Gold (2022), earned a starred Kirkus review for its thrilling conclusion.
Beyond the duology, Elle’s A Taste of Magic (2022) is a middle-grade gem, weaving culinary whimsy with family ties, inspired by her grandmother’s warmth. Her House of Marionne series (2023) dives into a romantic fantasy world, exploring oppressive power systems. Elle’s style—vivid, heartfelt, and unflinching—tackles themes like colonization, privilege, and resilience, all wrapped in accessible magic systems that spark the imagination.
Why J. Elle Matters
J. Elle’s work is a love letter to Black youth, offering mirrors for those rarely seen in fantasy and windows for others to understand their struggles. Her novels, translated into multiple languages, have earned accolades like a 2022 NAACP Image Award nomination. By mentoring aspiring writers and creating curricula for educators, Elle ensures her impact extends beyond the page, inspiring a new generation to dream big.
About J. Elle
- Born: Houston, Texas, Third Ward
- Key Works: Wings of Ebony, Ashes of Gold, A Taste of Magic, House of Marionne
- Awards: 2022 NAACP Image Award Nominee, 2022 Black Caucus First Novelist Honor
- Fun Fact: She loves cooking dishes rooted in her Texas and Louisiana heritage!
Snag Wings of Ebony and dive into J. Elle’s spellbinding world of magic and courage!