Picture a Texas high school teacher spinning tales that ignite feminist revolutions—meet Jennifer Mathieu! This American author crafts young adult novels that tackle real-world issues with heart and humor, earning her a devoted following. Her breakout hit, Moxie, even caught Hollywood’s eye, becoming a Netflix film directed by Amy Poehler. Let’s dive into the world of this inspiring storyteller!
The Making of Jennifer Mathieu
Born to a Chilean father and a Cuban mother, Jennifer Mathieu grew up on the East Coast before settling in Texas. A bookworm from preschool, she penned her first stories in kindergarten and published a piece in Cricket Magazine as a child. After studying journalism at Northwestern University, she worked as a reporter for the Houston Press but found her true calling in teaching high school English. Her love for storytelling and feminism, sparked at college, fueled her shift to writing novels that empower young readers.
Jennifer Mathieu’s Unforgettable Stories
Mathieu’s young adult novels blend raw emotion, sharp dialogue, and social commentary, making her a standout in contemporary YA fiction. Her debut, The Truth About Alice (2014), explores the devastating impact of rumors through multiple perspectives, winning the Children’s Choice Teen Debut Author Award. Moxie (2017), her most celebrated work, follows Vivian Carter, a shy teen who launches a feminist zine to fight sexism at her Texas high school. Inspired by the Riot Grrrl movement, it’s a rallying cry for empowerment.
Other gems include The Liars of Mariposa Island (2019), a poignant tale of family secrets and Cuban heritage, and Down Came the Rain (2023), which tackles eco-anxiety and mental health through climate activism. In 2024, Mathieu debuted her first adult novel, The Faculty Lounge, a witty ensemble story set in a Texas high school. Her style—accessible, character-driven, and unflinchingly honest—resonates with teens and adults alike, weaving themes of feminism, justice, and resilience.
Why Jennifer Mathieu Matters
Jennifer Mathieu’s impact goes beyond the page. Her novels give voice to young women, encouraging them to challenge injustice and embrace their strength. Moxie sparked real-world discussions on feminism, with its zine-inspired rebellion resonating in classrooms and book clubs. By addressing issues like sexism, bullying, and climate change, Mathieu empowers readers to think critically and act boldly. Her Hollywood adaptation, directed by Poehler, brought her message to a global audience, cementing her as a key voice in YA literature.
- Born: To Chilean and Cuban immigrant parents
- Key Works: Moxie, The Truth About Alice, The Faculty Lounge
- Awards: Children’s Choice Teen Debut Author Award for The Truth About Alice
- Fun Fact: She’s a high school English teacher in Houston!
About Jennifer Mathieu
Ready to join the revolution? Grab Moxie and dive into Jennifer Mathieu’s fierce, funny world of YA fiction!