Picture a storyteller who turned her childhood love for scribbling stories into a vibrant career, captivating young readers with tales of courage and truth—meet Janae Marks! This New York Times bestselling author of middle-grade fiction has become a beloved voice in children’s literature, blending mystery, family ties, and social justice with a sprinkle of heart. Her debut, From the Desk of Zoe Washington, took the literary world by storm, proving Marks is a star on the rise.
The Making of Janae Marks
Growing up in the suburbs of New York City, Janae Marks was always writing—whether it was illustrated autobiographical tales in kindergarten, journal entries, or short stories for Seventeen Magazine contests. Books were her prized possessions, fueling her imagination. Initially drawn to musical theater in high school, she soon realized her true passion lay in storytelling, not stage lights. At Tufts University, she earned a BA in English, shifting her focus to creative writing after a transformative literature class on “Girls’ Books” rekindled her love for children’s stories. She later honed her craft with an MFA in Writing for Children from The New School, solidifying her path.
Marks’s seven years working at a Big Five publisher gave her a rare insider’s view of the industry, shaping her approach to writing. Now settled in Connecticut with her husband, daughter, and miniature schnauzer, Cookie, she channels her experiences into stories that resonate with young readers and adults alike.
Janae Marks’s Unforgettable Stories
Janae Marks’s middle-grade novels are known for their heartfelt narratives, relatable characters, and seamless blend of lighthearted moments with weighty themes. Her debut, From the Desk of Zoe Washington (2020), follows Zoe, a 12-year-old aspiring baker who uncovers a mystery about her incarcerated father’s innocence. The novel, which won the Tassy Walden Award and earned four starred reviews, tackles systemic racism with a hopeful, accessible tone, making it a standout in children’s literature.
Her second novel, A Soft Place to Land (2021), explores Joy, a girl navigating family struggles and financial hardship, finding solace in a secret hideout. This Indie Next Pick delves into resilience and community. Marks continued Zoe’s story in On Air with Zoe Washington (2023), a New York Times bestseller that follows Zoe helping her father start a restaurant post-incarceration. Her latest, A Split Second (2024), weaves time-travel intrigue with emotional depth. Marks’s style—vivid, empathetic, and infused with contemporary Black girl experiences—speaks to readers seeking representation and hope.
Marks also contributed to anthologies like Hope Wins (2022) and Black Girl Power, amplifying diverse voices. Her ability to balance fun (think cupcakes and baking shows) with serious issues (like injustice and identity) makes her work both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Why Janae Marks Matters
Janae Marks’s impact on middle-grade fiction lies in her commitment to authentic representation. By centering contemporary Black girls, she fills a gap she felt as a child, when she rarely saw herself in books. Her stories empower young readers to question assumptions, seek truth, and embrace their identities. Recognized as a “brightest new star” by Bookpage, Marks has earned accolades from Parents Magazine, Kirkus Reviews, and the Boston Globe, with her debut inspiring a Disney movie in development. Her work fosters empathy and sparks conversations about justice, making her a vital voice in children’s literature.
- Key Works: From the Desk of Zoe Washington, A Soft Place to Land, On Air with Zoe Washington, A Split Second
- Awards: Tassy Walden Award, Junior Library Guild Gold Star, Edgar Award nominee
- Fun Fact: Marks once dreamed of Broadway but found her stage in storytelling!
Snag From the Desk of Zoe Washington and dive into Janae Marks’s heartfelt world of mystery and hope!