Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of love, identity, and survival with a vibrant, unapologetic voice—meet Kosoko Jackson! Hailing from the DC Metro Area, this rising star in young adult fiction has carved a niche with stories centering African American queer protagonists. By day, he’s a digital media strategist; by night, he’s a wordsmith championing diversity in literature, proving that every story deserves a spotlight.
Kosoko’s journey is as dynamic as his novels. A vocal advocate for representation, he’s not just writing books—he’s reshaping the literary landscape, one heartfelt narrative at a time. Ready to dive into the world of a writer who’s redefining young adult fiction? Let’s explore Kosoko Jackson’s story!
The Making of Kosoko Jackson
Born and raised in the bustling DC Metro Area, Kosoko Jackson grew up surrounded by stories that sparked his imagination. As a teen, he devoured books like S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders, drawn to raw, real characters who felt like friends. This love for authentic voices fueled his dream to write. After studying at Southern New Hampshire’s Mountainview MFA program, he honed his craft, blending his knack for digital storytelling with a passion for fiction. His early career as a sensitivity reader for major publishers sharpened his eye for nuanced representation, setting the stage for his own groundbreaking work.
Kosoko Jackson’s Unforgettable Stories
Kosoko’s novels are a vibrant tapestry of genres—think historical thrillers, sci-fi adventures, and rom-coms, all infused with rich themes of identity and love. His debut, A Place for Wolves (2019), was a bold historical thriller set during the Kosovo War, following James Mills, a queer Black teen navigating love and survival. Though it faced controversy and was withdrawn before publication, it showcased Kosoko’s fearless storytelling.
Undeterred, he bounced back with Yesterday Is History (2021), a time-travel romance where a Black teen grapples with a liver transplant and unexpected leaps through time. Then came I’m So (Not) Over You (2022), a Lambda Literary Award-winning adult rom-com that sparkles with humor and heart, proving Kosoko’s versatility. His 2023 horror-fantasy, The Forest Demands Its Due, dives into gothic thrills, cementing his knack for genre-blending narratives that keep readers guessing.
Kosoko’s style is electric—his prose pulses with emotional depth, sharp dialogue, and characters who leap off the page. Whether it’s a queer Black teen wielding knives or falling in love, his stories celebrate complexity, challenging stereotypes and inviting readers to see themselves in new ways.
Why Kosoko Jackson Matters
Kosoko Jackson isn’t just writing books; he’s building bridges. As a GLAAD Rising Star Fellow and Lambda Literary Award winner, he’s a beacon for queer Black youth, showing them their stories are powerful and marketable. His advocacy for diversity in YA literature pushes publishers to amplify marginalized voices, reshaping an industry that’s often lagged behind. By mentoring up-and-coming queer authors and crafting narratives that blend joy with tough truths, Kosoko ensures that literature reflects the world’s vibrant diversity.
His impact extends beyond the page. Through social media, he connects with readers, sharing his journey from a canceled debut to bestselling success, inspiring resilience and authenticity. Kosoko’s work reminds us that stories can heal, challenge, and unite.
- Born: DC Metro Area
- Key Works: Yesterday Is History (2021), I’m So (Not) Over You (2022), The Forest Demands Its Due (2023)
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award (2023), GLAAD Rising Star Fellow
- Fun Fact: He’s a self-proclaimed Slytherin and London Fog enthusiast!
Snag I’m So (Not) Over You and dive into Kosoko Jackson’s dazzling world of romance and resilience—your bookshelf will thank you!