Picture a storyteller who spun tales of queer joy, friendship, and self-discovery that resonate with readers everywhere—meet Julian Winters! This American Young Adult Romance author has captured hearts with his vibrant, inclusive narratives. Known for novels like Running With Lions and Right Where I Left You, Winters crafts stories that celebrate diverse identities with authenticity and optimism, making him a beloved voice in contemporary YA literature.
Born and raised on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, Winters brings a unique perspective to his work, blending his love for comic books, volleyball, and soccer into his storytelling. His journey from management trainer to award-winning author is a testament to his passion for creating spaces where queer and BIPOC teens see themselves as heroes.
The Making of Julian Winters
Growing up, Winters was a creative soul, crafting stories around his hand-drawn 'paper people' as a child. His teenage years saw him diving into fanfiction, where he honed his ability to write LGBTQ+ characters with depth and heart. This early passion for inclusive storytelling laid the foundation for his career. A former management trainer, Winters took a leap of faith to pursue writing full-time, driven by a desire to rewrite the narratives he felt were missing in his youth—stories where queer BIPOC characters could thrive, not just survive.
His debut novel, Running With Lions, published in 2018, marked his entry into the YA scene. Inspired by his love for sports and geek culture, Winters channeled his experiences into stories that resonate with readers seeking representation and hope. His Atlanta roots and self-proclaimed geekiness shine through in his work, making his characters feel like friends you’d meet at a comic con or a soccer match.
Julian Winters’s Unforgettable Stories
Winters’s novels are a celebration of queer joy, identity, and the messy beauty of growing up. His debut, Running With Lions, follows Sebastian Hughes, a high school soccer goalie navigating friendship and romance at summer training camp. The novel won the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Gold Award for its heartfelt portrayal of diverse characters. How to Be Remy Cameron (2019) dives into the life of an out-and-proud teen grappling with identity and belonging, earning a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection and a starred review from School Library Journal.
Right Where I Left You (2022) is a geeky, romantic ode to fandom and friendship, following Isaac and Diego as they navigate love and social anxiety. Praised by The New York Times for its message that 'queer Black and brown kids deserve to live happily ever after too,' it earned starred reviews from Kirkus and Booklist. Winters’s upcoming adult romance debut, I Think They Love You (2025), promises a funny, big-hearted second-chance rom-com, showcasing his versatility.
Winters’s style is warm, relatable, and infused with humor, drawing readers into worlds where love and acceptance triumph. His themes of identity, community, and resilience resonate deeply, particularly with queer and BIPOC teens who see themselves reflected in his pages. By blending romance with real-world struggles, Winters creates stories that feel both escapist and grounded.
Why Julian Winters Matters
Julian Winters’s impact on YA literature lies in his commitment to representation. His novels offer a counter-narrative to the pain-centered stories he encountered as a teen, giving queer and BIPOC readers heroes who find joy and love. His work has inspired countless fans, with readers sharing how his books made them feel seen and empowered. Winters’s advocacy for inclusivity extends beyond his writing, as he actively supports other authors and engages with fans on social media.
His awards, including the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Gold Award and Georgia Peach Book Award nominations, underscore his influence. By paving the way for more diverse voices in YA, Winters is shaping a more inclusive literary landscape, proving that stories of queer joy are not just necessary but transformative.
About Julian Winters
- Location: Lives outside Atlanta, Georgia
- Key Works: Running With Lions (2018), How to Be Remy Cameron (2019), Right Where I Left You (2022)
- Awards: IBPA Benjamin Franklin Gold Award for Running With Lions
- Fun Fact: A self-proclaimed comic book geek who loves volleyball and soccer
Ready to dive into a world of queer joy and heartfelt romance? Snag Right Where I Left You and discover why Julian Winters’s stories are a must-read for YA fans!