Picture a Cuban-American storyteller who whisks readers from Miami’s vibrant bakeries to England’s cozy tea shops—meet Laura Taylor Namey! A New York Times bestselling author, Namey crafts young adult novels that blend heartfelt coming-of-age tales with her rich cultural heritage. Her stories, infused with themes of identity, love, and self-discovery, have captured the hearts of teens and adults alike, making her a standout voice in contemporary YA literature.
Born and raised in San Diego, California, Namey’s Cuban roots and love for travel shape her vivid narratives. From her debut novel to her Reese’s Book Club pick, she invites readers into worlds where quirky teens navigate life’s big questions with humor and heart.
The Making of Laura Taylor Namey
Laura Taylor Namey grew up in a tight-knit Cuban-American family in San Diego, surrounded by tradition, flavorful food, and stories that sparked her imagination. A former teacher with a BA in Elementary Education from the University of San Diego, she initially crafted lessons, not novels. But her love for storytelling, inspired by her children’s interest in YA literature, led her to write. After teaching herself the craft, Namey penned her first novel, which lives in a drawer, paving the way for her published works. Her Cuban heritage and California upbringing infuse her stories with authenticity and warmth.
Laura Taylor Namey’s Unforgettable Stories
Namey’s novels are a delicious blend of romance, culture, and self-discovery, often featuring quirky teens facing life’s challenges. Her debut, The Library of Lost Things (2019), introduces Darcy Wells, a book-loving teen hiding her mother’s hoarding secret while finding love and courage. This poignant tale set the stage for Namey’s signature emotional depth.
Her breakout, A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow (2020), a Reese’s Book Club YA pick, follows Lila Reyes, a Miami baker sent to England after heartbreak. This charming story of love and reinvention, soon to be a film, showcases Namey’s knack for blending Cuban culture with universal themes. When We Were Them (2021) explores friendship and grief through Willa, Luz, and Britton, set against San Diego’s beaches, earning praise for its raw authenticity. A British Girl’s Guide to Hurricanes and Heartbreak (2023) tackles grief and family through Flora Maxwell, weaving Cuban and British influences.
Namey’s lyrical prose, vivid settings, and focus on identity resonate deeply, making her novels both cozy and profound. Her love for music, travel, and vintage treasures often sneaks into her stories, adding charm.
Why Laura Taylor Namey Matters
Laura Taylor Namey’s work is a love letter to her Cuban-American heritage, offering representation for Latinx teens while speaking to universal experiences. Her stories tackle heavy topics—grief, loss, and identity—with honesty, wrapped in humor and hope. By centering diverse characters, she broadens the YA landscape, inspiring readers readers to see themselves in her pages. Her Peggy Miller Award for excellence in YA fiction underscores her growing influence.
As a San Diego native, Namey’s novels also celebrate her hometown, making it a character in its own right. Her global appeal, from New York Times bestsellers to international acclaim, cements her as a vital voice in YA literature.
- Birthplace: San Diego, California
- Key Works: The Library of Lost Things, A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow, When We Were Them, A British Girl’s Guide to Hurricanes and Heartbreak
- Awards: Peggy Miller Award for Young Adult Fiction
Snag A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow and dive into Laura Taylor Namey’s heartwarming, culture-rich world!