Picture a vibrant storyteller who weaves queer joy, magical creatures, and heartfelt romance into every page—meet Jason June! This New York Times bestselling author has captured hearts with Young Adult rom-coms and whimsical children’s books that celebrate self-discovery and love in all its forms. With a knack for blending humor, heart, and a touch of magic, Jason June is a literary star you’ll want to know.
From the sparkly shores of Mermicorn Island to the bold adventures of Jay’s Gay Agenda, Jason’s stories invite readers to embrace their true selves. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this dazzling American author who’s making waves in contemporary literature.
The Making of Jason June
Jason June, a genderqueer author with a two-name first name (think Mary-Kate, minus the hyphen), grew up with a love for storytelling that bloomed early. A pivotal children’s literature course at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where he earned degrees in Journalism (’13) and English Literature (’16), ignited his passion for writing for young readers. Inspired by classics like The Little Mermaid, where he identified more with Ariel than Prince Eric, Jason dreamed of creating stories that reflected his own queer identity. After honing his craft at The Writing Barn in 2014, he transformed from a journalism student into a celebrated author, driven by a desire to fill bookshelves with diverse, joyful narratives.
Jason June’s Unforgettable Stories
Jason June’s bibliography sparkles with variety, spanning Young Adult rom-coms and picture books that mix flamboyant fun with heartfelt themes. His debut YA novel, Jay’s Gay Agenda (2021), follows Jay Collier, a gay teen chasing firsts like hand-holding and first kisses in a new city. This sex-positive, joy-filled story resonates with readers seeking authentic queer representation. Then there’s Out of the Blue (2022), a New York Times bestseller blending contemporary romance with merperson magic, where a fake-dating scheme between a lifeguard and a merperson named Crest dives into themes of love and identity.
For younger readers, Jason’s Mermicorn Island series, starting with Search for the Sparkle (2021), enchants with tales of magical sea creatures and friendship. His picture books, like Porcupine Cupid (2021), a queer-inclusive Valentine’s Day story, and Whobert Whover, Owl Detective (2017), blend whimsy with a slightly dark twist. Jason’s style—vibrant, inclusive, and emotionally rich—centers queer protagonists and celebrates love, lust, and self-acceptance, making his work a beacon for diverse readers.
His recent works, like The Spells We Cast (2023) and its 2024 sequel, explore magical competitions and soulmate dynamics, while Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball (2023) delivers more chaotic, gay rom-com shenanigans. Each story showcases Jason’s ability to craft relatable characters and worlds that feel both fantastical and deeply human.
Why Jason June Matters
Jason June’s impact goes beyond the page. By centering queer joy in his stories, he’s helping a new generation of readers feel seen, especially those who, like him, longed for representation as teens. His advocacy against LGBTQ+ book bans, including a 2022 book drive donating 350 copies of Out of the Blue to queer youth centers, underscores his commitment to accessibility. Jason’s work challenges outdated publishing norms, jumping genres from picture books to YA with fluidity, proving authors can explore diverse voices and audiences.
His CSUN-inspired Joan Nessan Creative Writing Prize supports aspiring children’s literature writers, reflecting his dedication to nurturing new talent. With a growing fanbase and a voice that resonates, Jason June is shaping a more inclusive literary landscape, one magical, love-filled story at a time.
- Key Works: Jay’s Gay Agenda, Out of the Blue, Mermicorn Island, Porcupine Cupid
- Education: B.A. Journalism ’13, M.A. English Literature ’16, CSUN
- Notable Trait: Avid Laura Dern fan and Pomeranian lover
Ready to dive into a world of queer joy and magical adventures? Snag Jay’s Gay Agenda or Out of the Blue and let Jason June’s vibrant storytelling sweep you away!