Picture a Haitian-American storyteller who brought the vibrant heart of Haiti to young adult fiction—meet Maika Moulite! Born in Miami to Haitian immigrants, Maika, alongside her sister Maritza, crafts novels that pulse with cultural pride, witty heroines, and themes of identity and family. Their debut, Dear Haiti, Love Alaine, introduced a fresh voice in YA literature, blending humor, heart, and heritage in a way that’s captivated readers.
Maika’s journey as a writer is as dynamic as her stories. A marketing expert turned PhD student, she channels her love for storytelling into novels that celebrate Haitian culture while tackling universal themes. Let’s dive into the world of Maika Moulite and discover why her work is a must-read!
The Making of Maika Moulite
Growing up in Miami as the eldest of four sisters, Maika Moulite was steeped in the rich traditions of her Haitian heritage. Her parents, immigrants from Haiti, instilled a deep appreciation for culture and storytelling. Maika’s academic path led her to Florida State University, where she earned a bachelor’s in marketing, followed by an MBA from the University of Miami. But her true passion lay in writing—books, journals, lists, you name it. Inspired by a visit from bestselling author Brad Meltzer at her high school, Maika realized her gift for storytelling could become a career. Today, as a PhD student at Howard University, she researches representation in media, a theme that echoes in her novels.
Maika Moulite’s Unforgettable Stories
Maika and Maritza Moulite’s collaborative writing process is a powerhouse of creativity. Their debut, Dear Haiti, Love Alaine (2019), follows Alaine Beauparlant, a sharp-witted Haitian-American teen sent to Haiti after a school prank goes awry. Told through letters, emails, and diary entries, the novel weaves humor, romance, and vodou-infused mystery, earning praise for its vibrant portrayal of Haitian culture. Reviewers called it “stunning” and “enchanting,” a testament to the sisters’ ability to craft relatable yet culturally rich narratives.
Their second novel, One of the Good Ones (2021), takes a darker turn, exploring racial injustice and sisterhood. When teen activist Kezi Smith dies mysteriously after a protest, her sisters embark on a journey using The Negro Motorist Green Book as a guide. The book’s genre-bending style and unflinching look at prejudice earned accolades for its emotional depth. Their latest, The Summer I Ate the Rich (2025), introduces Brielle Petitfour, a Haitian-American zombie seeking revenge on Miami’s elite. This biting satire blends Haitian zombie lore with social commentary, cementing the Moulites’ knack for bold, innovative storytelling.
The sisters’ style is marked by fierce female leads, epistolary formats, and a balance of humor and heavy themes. Whether exploring family curses or systemic racism, their work invites readers to laugh, cry, and reflect on identity and resilience.
Why Maika Moulite Matters
Maika Moulite’s impact lies in her commitment to authentic representation. By centering Haitian-American voices in YA fiction, she and Maritza challenge stereotypes and bring nuanced stories to a genre often lacking diversity. Their novels resonate with readers seeking cultural pride and universal truths, inspiring young writers to embrace their heritage. Maika’s academic work on media representation further amplifies her influence, bridging literature and social change. As they continue to publish, the Moulite sisters are shaping a legacy of bold, heartfelt storytelling.
- Born: Miami, Florida, to Haitian immigrant parents
- Key Works: Dear Haiti, Love Alaine (2019), One of the Good Ones (2021), The Summer I Ate the Rich (2025)
- Education: Bachelor’s in Marketing (Florida State University), MBA (University of Miami), PhD student at Howard University
Ready to dive into Maika Moulite’s vibrant world? Snag Dear Haiti, Love Alaine for a witty, heartfelt adventure, or try The Summer I Ate the Rich for a thrilling twist on zombie lore. Maika and Maritza’s stories are waiting to spark your imagination!