Picture a Cleveland storyteller who spun a time-traveling love story that hooked readers worldwide—meet Justin A. Reynolds! This American author burst onto the young adult fiction scene with his debut novel, Opposite of Always, blending romance, speculative twists, and authentic teen voices. With a knack for crafting heartfelt narratives, Reynolds has become a rising star in YA literature, captivating readers with his unique perspective.
From his diverse career path to his passion for storytelling, Reynolds’s journey is as compelling as his books. His work, rooted in personal experiences and a love for authentic connections, resonates with teens and adults alike, making him a must-read in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Justin A. Reynolds
Born and raised in northeast Ohio, Justin A. Reynolds always dreamed of being a writer, a goal documented on a kindergarten paper proudly displayed in his mother’s office. Before picking up the pen, he explored an eclectic range of jobs—pest control operator, NASA intern, registered nurse, and more. These experiences, coupled with his creative writing and English literature degree from Cleveland State University, shaped his storytelling. Inspired by childhood friendships and the sudden losses of loved ones, Reynolds began writing to explore life’s big questions, like love, loss, and purpose.
Justin A. Reynolds’s Unforgettable Stories
Reynolds’s debut, Opposite of Always (2019), is a heartfelt YA novel that blends romance and time travel. It follows Jack Ellison King, who falls for Kate but is trapped in a loop, reliving their story to save her life. Critics praised its witty dialogue and emotional depth, earning it a spot as a School Library Journal Best Book of 2019. His follow-up, Early Departures (2020), dives into speculative fiction, exploring grief and second chances as two friends navigate a futuristic resurrection technology. It received four starred reviews and was named a Kirkus Best Teen Book of 2020.
Reynolds also ventured into graphic novels with Miles Morales: Shock Waves (2021), a Marvel bestseller featuring Brooklyn’s Spider-Man. His middle-grade novel, It’s the End of the World and I’m in My Bathing Suit (2022), showcases his humor, following Eddie Gordon Holloway as he solves a neighborhood mystery. Known for his vibrant, authentic teen voices and themes of love, friendship, and representation, Reynolds’s stories resonate with diverse readers.
His writing style is conversational yet poignant, often weaving humor and heart with speculative elements. Reynolds prioritizes Black characters and people of color as protagonists, ensuring they’re not sidelined but celebrated as complex, relatable heroes. His narratives tackle heavy topics like grief and systemic issues with a light touch, making them accessible and impactful for young readers.
Why Justin A. Reynolds Matters
Justin A. Reynolds’s impact on YA literature lies in his commitment to representation and emotional storytelling. By centering Black characters and authentic experiences, he fills a gap in the genre, offering readers mirrors to see themselves and windows into others’ lives. His co-founding of the CLE Reads Book Festival in Cleveland further amplifies diverse voices, fostering a love for reading among young people. Awards like the 2023 Denise McCoy Legacy Award for humorous children’s literature underscore his influence.
Reynolds’s ability to blend speculative fiction with real-world issues has earned him a loyal following. His stories don’t just entertain—they spark conversations about love, loss, and identity, making him a vital voice in contemporary YA fiction.
- Born: Northeast Ohio
- Key Works: Opposite of Always, Early Departures, Miles Morales: Shock Waves, It’s the End of the World and I’m in My Bathing Suit
- Awards: 2023 Denise McCoy Legacy Award, Indies Introduce Top Ten Debut
Snag Opposite of Always and dive into Justin A. Reynolds’s heartfelt, time-bending world of YA fiction!