Picture a South Carolina storyteller who crafts tales of heartbreak, humor, and futuristic intrigue—meet Jess Rothenberg! With her knack for blending raw emotion and witty prose, Rothenberg has carved a niche in young adult fiction, captivating readers with novels like The Catastrophic History of You and Me and The Kingdom. Her stories aren’t just page-turners; they’re heartfelt journeys that linger long after the final chapter.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Rothenberg’s Southern roots and vibrant imagination fuel her storytelling. Now a full-time writer in New York City, she’s traded her editorial desk at Penguin Books for a world of her own creation, where teens navigate love, loss, and AI-powered theme parks. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this rising YA star!
The Making of Jess Rothenberg
Growing up in Charleston, Jess Rothenberg was a dreamer, penning poetry and short stories that hinted at her future as a YA author. She studied Sociology and English at Vassar College, where her love for storytelling deepened. After graduating, she landed a role at Penguin Books, editing teen and middle-grade hits like the bestselling Vampire Academy series. This behind-the-scenes work sharpened her craft, but her heart was always set on writing her own stories. Inspired by the chaotic dating scene of New York City and her own teenage-like spirit, Rothenberg began crafting narratives that resonate with readers of all ages.
Jess Rothenberg’s Unforgettable Stories
Rothenberg’s debut, The Catastrophic History of You and Me (2012), is a poignant yet playful tale of Brie, a teen who dies of a broken heart—literally—after her boyfriend’s betrayal. Navigating the afterlife with a sarcastic guide named Patrick, Brie grapples with grief’s five stages, uncovering secrets and second chances. Translated into over a dozen languages, the novel’s mix of humor, romance, and heartbreak struck a chord globally.
In The Kingdom (2019), Rothenberg pivots to sci-fi, crafting a thrilling mystery set in a futuristic theme park. Ana, a half-human, half-android “Fantasist,” is accused of murder, unraveling dark secrets behind the park’s “Happily Ever After” facade. Praised as “wildly addictive” by New York Times bestselling author Dhonielle Clayton, the novel blends Westworld-esque suspense with feminist undertones, exploring AI and human connection.
Rothenberg’s style is a masterclass in balance: witty dialogue, emotional depth, and genre-bending plots. Whether tackling afterlife romance or dystopian thrills, her stories ask big questions—What does it mean to love? To be human?—while keeping readers hooked with twists and charm.
Why Jess Rothenberg Matters
Jess Rothenberg’s impact lies in her ability to make YA fiction feel universal. Her stories resonate with teens and adults alike, tackling grief, identity, and autonomy with a light touch that never feels preachy. The Kingdom’s exploration of AI ethics and female agency feels especially timely, earning accolades like a 2020 YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults pick. By weaving humor and heart into complex themes, Rothenberg invites readers to laugh, cry, and think—often all at once. Her work reminds us that YA fiction isn’t just for young readers; it’s for anyone craving stories that spark joy and reflection.
- Birthplace: Charleston, South Carolina
- Key Works: The Catastrophic History of You and Me, The Kingdom
- Fun Fact: She dreams of owning a sheepdog named Leo!
Ready to fall in love with Jess Rothenberg’s world? Grab The Catastrophic History of You and Me for a heartfelt ride or The Kingdom for a sci-fi thrill—either way, you’re in for a treat!