Picture a Taiwanese-American storyteller who weaves tales of identity and self-discovery with heart and wit—meet Justina Chen! A former Microsoft executive turned award-winning author, Chen has carved a niche in young adult literature, captivating readers with novels like Nothing but the Truth (and a few white lies) and North of Beautiful. Her stories, rich with multicultural themes, invite teens to explore who they are and who they can become.
Born in 1968 in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, to Taiwanese-American parents, Chen’s journey from corporate life to literary stardom is as inspiring as her books. With a knack for illuminating truths, she’s become a beloved voice in contemporary fiction, blending humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom.
The Making of Justina Chen
Justina Chen’s path to authorship was anything but linear. Growing up, she penned her first 50-page novella at age eight, hinting at her storytelling destiny. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Stanford University in Economics in just three years, earning the Dean’s Award for Service. Post-graduation, Chen joined Microsoft in Seattle as a marketing executive, later becoming a speechwriter for a company president. Yet, her childhood dream of writing never faded. After becoming a mother, she ditched the corporate world, joined the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and poured her heart into writing, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream.
Justina Chen’s Unforgettable Stories
Chen’s young adult novels are vibrant tapestries of multicultural identity, self-discovery, and resilience. Her debut, Nothing but the Truth (and a few white lies) (2006), follows Patty Ho, a biracial teen navigating her Taiwanese-American heritage. The novel’s wit and authenticity earned it the Asian Pacific American Award for Literature. Girl Overboard (2008) dives into the life of Syrah Cheng, a billionaire’s daughter whose seemingly perfect life unravels after a snowboarding accident, offering a poignant look at privilege and personal growth.
North of Beautiful (2009), often hailed as Chen’s masterpiece, traces Terra Cooper’s journey to redefine beauty beyond her facial birthmark. Praised for its lyrical prose and cartographical metaphors, it was a Kirkus Best Book of the Year and a finalist for nine state book awards. With Twice the Love, Dessie Mei (2024), her middle-grade debut, celebrates belonging through the story of a Chinese adoptee, earning accolades for its heartfelt narrative. Chen’s style—vivid, empathetic, and layered—makes her stories resonate deeply with readers.
Why Justina Chen Matters
Justina Chen’s impact on young adult literature lies in her ability to amplify underrepresented voices. Her novels tackle complex themes like racism, family dynamics, and self-acceptance, offering teens mirrors to see themselves and windows to understand others. Through her work with readergirlz, a teen literacy project that won a National Book Award for Innovations in Reading, Chen has fostered a love of books among young readers. Her storytelling workshops for leaders and keynotes at places like the Mayo Clinic further showcase her gift for inspiring change through narrative.
As a Taiwanese-American author, Chen brings authenticity and nuance to multicultural stories, making her a vital voice in a genre craving diversity. Her books don’t just entertain—they empower readers to embrace their unique identities.
- Born: 1968, Ridley Park, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: Nothing but the Truth, Girl Overboard, North of Beautiful, With Twice the Love, Dessie Mei
- Awards: Asian Pacific American Award, Kirkus Best Book, National Book Award for readergirlz
Snag North of Beautiful or With Twice the Love, Dessie Mei and dive into Justina Chen’s vibrant world of heart, humor,-s and self-discovery!