Picture a Brazilian storyteller who turned the spotlight on HIV stigma with heart, humor, and hope—meet Lucas Rocha! A librarian by day and a young adult author by night, Rocha crafts stories that blend raw emotion with vibrant characters, making readers laugh, cry, and think. His debut novel, Where We Go From Here, has captivated audiences worldwide, proving that stories can entertain while breaking down barriers.
The Making of Lucas Rocha
Born in São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro, Lucas Rocha grew up surrounded by the vibrant culture of Brazil. With a master’s degree in information science from Fluminense Federal University, he found his calling as a librarian, spreading the joy of books in São Paulo’s public libraries. His love for storytelling sparked early, fueled by music, TV shows, and Brazilian literature. Rocha’s journey to authorship began with short stories, but his passion for addressing tough topics like identity and health led him to write novels that resonate with young readers.
Lucas Rocha’s Unforgettable Stories
Rocha’s debut, Where We Go From Here (2018), is a game-changer in YA fiction. Set in Rio de Janeiro, it follows three gay young men—Henrique, Ian, and Victor—whose lives intertwine after HIV diagnoses. With meticulous research, Rocha tackles stigma with sensitivity, weaving humor and heart into a story of friendship and love. The book, translated into English by Scholastic in 2020, won the Latino Book Awards and GLLI YA Book Prize for its bold narrative.
His second novel, Rumores da Cidade (2021), dives into small-town Brazil, exploring a gay teen’s struggle with identity and family secrets against a backdrop of political corruption. Rocha’s short story, Cinco Dias para o Fim do Mundo, offers a digital-exclusive tale of apocalyptic stakes and personal growth. His style shines through vivid characters, like drag queen Eric in Where We Go From Here, and a knack for balancing heavy themes with hope and humor.
Why Lucas Rocha Matters
Lucas Rocha’s work is a beacon for diversity in YA literature. By centering queer Brazilian voices and addressing HIV stigma, he challenges misconceptions and fosters empathy. His books resonate globally, offering universal stories of resilience and community. In a world where LGBTQ+ narratives often face censorship, Rocha’s courage to tell authentic stories has inspired readers and writers alike, earning praise from authors like David Levithan and Rachael Lippincott.
- Born: São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro
- Key Works: Where We Go From Here, Rumores da Cidade, Cinco Dias para o Fim do Mundo
- Awards: Latino Book Awards, GLLI YA Book Prize
- Fun Fact: Rocha is a huge My Chemical Romance fan with a tattoo to prove it!
Snag Where We Go From Here and dive into Lucas Rocha’s vibrant, heartfelt world of YA fiction!