Picture a Brazilian storyteller who brought alien invasions and heartfelt survival tales to life—meet Laura Pohl! Born in Germany and raised across continents, this young adult sci-fi author has captured readers’ imaginations with her thrilling duology, The Last 8. With a voice shaped by a love for Star Wars, fanfiction, and multicultural adventures, Pohl weaves stories that blend high-stakes action with deeply human emotions.
From her vibrant hometown of Curitiba to the bustling streets of São Paulo, Pohl’s journey is as dynamic as her novels. Her unique perspective as a Brazilian author with global roots infuses her work with diversity and authenticity, making her a rising star in YA literature. Ready to explore her cosmic worlds? Let’s dive into Laura Pohl’s story!
The Making of Laura Pohl
Laura Pohl was born in Braunschweig, Germany, to Brazilian parents with a passion for travel. Raised in Curitiba, Brazil, she soaked up stories and cultures, but her life took a global turn at 13 when her family moved to Sydney, Australia. There, she devoured every middle-grade and YA book in the Marrickville Library, mastering English and fueling her love for storytelling. Back in Brazil, she penned Percy Jackson and Naruto fanfiction, dreaming of becoming an author. At 18, she moved to São Paulo to study Literature at the University of São Paulo, later working as a freelance editor and translator while crafting her own tales.
Laura Pohl’s Unforgettable Stories
Pohl’s breakout work, The Last 8 (2019), is a pulse-pounding YA sci-fi novel that follows Clover Martinez, a Latina pilot navigating an alien-ravaged Earth. Inspired by Independence Day and Star Trek, the story blends nonstop action with themes of grief, hope, and identity. Its sequel, The First 7 (2020), deepens the saga, exploring a mysterious human colony and Clover’s struggles with PTSD and her aromantic identity. Critics praised the duology for its diverse cast and emotional depth, earning Pohl the International Latino Book Awards.
Beyond sci-fi, Pohl ventured into fantasy with The Grimrose Girls (2021), a New York Times bestseller reimagining fairy tales with a queer, magical twist. Its sequel, The Wicked Remain (2022), cemented her knack for blending genre thrills with rich character arcs. Pohl’s style—vibrant, inclusive, and action-packed—draws from her love of pop culture and sci-fi classics, creating stories that resonate with teens and adults alike.
Her narratives often explore resilience and belonging, reflecting her own journey as a Brazilian navigating global cultures. Whether it’s a spaceship hidden in Area 51 or a cursed fairy-tale school, Pohl’s worlds are immersive, surprising, and deeply human, making her a standout in YA literature.
Why Laura Pohl Matters
Laura Pohl’s impact lies in her ability to craft diverse, relatable characters in fantastical settings. Her inclusion of LGBTQ+ and Latinx perspectives, like Clover’s aromantic identity, brings fresh representation to YA sci-fi and fantasy. By tackling heavy themes like depression and survival with sensitivity, she connects with readers facing their own challenges. Her global upbringing and Brazilian roots add authenticity, broadening the genre’s cultural scope.
As a New York Times bestselling author, Pohl inspires aspiring writers, especially in Brazil, proving that unique voices can shine in YA literature. Her growing fanbase eagerly awaits her next adventure, a testament to her ability to blend heart, humor, and intergalactic stakes.
- Born: Braunschweig, Germany, to Brazilian parents
- Key Works: The Last 8 (2019), The First 7 (2020), The Grimrose Girls (2021), The Wicked Remain (2022)
- Awards: International Latino Book Awards for The Last 8
- Fun Fact: She’s obsessed with Star Wars and writes messages in caps lock!
Snag The Last 8 or The Grimrose Girls and dive into Laura Pohl’s thrilling, heartfelt worlds—your next favorite read awaits!