Picture a Boston-born storyteller who spun a tale of cupcakes and online crushes into a young adult sensation—meet Marisa Kanter! A self-proclaimed book nerd and amateur baker, Kanter crafts modern love stories that capture the messy, magical moments of teenage life. Her debut novel, What I Like About You, took the YA world by storm, blending heartfelt romance with the complexities of digital identities.
Now based in Los Angeles, Kanter’s journey from a publishing insider to a celebrated author is as inspiring as her stories. With a knack for authentic teen voices and a passion for crocheting her own wardrobe, she’s carving out a unique space in young adult fiction. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life, works, and impact of this rising star.
The Making of Marisa Kanter
Growing up in the suburbs of Boston, Marisa Kanter was surrounded by books, thanks to her reader mother and librarian grandmother. Her love for stories led her to New York City, where she earned a B.S. in Media, Culture, and Communication from New York University, with a minor in creative writing. Kanter dove into the publishing industry, working in publicity for major publishers and covering YA books for MTV. Her insider experience shaped her understanding of what makes a story resonate with readers.
From an early age, Kanter was scribbling stories in notebooks, dreaming of becoming a writer. Her time in New York, immersed in the literary world, fueled her ambition. After years of honing her craft, she moved to Los Angeles, where she now writes by day and crochets by night, balancing her creative passions with a love for reality TV and iced chai.
Marisa Kanter’s Unforgettable Stories
Kanter’s debut, What I Like About You (2020), is a heartwarming YA romance that follows Halle Levitt, a book blogger who navigates a tangled love triangle between her online persona, Kels, and her real-life crush, Nash. Praised for its authentic teen voice and relatable portrayal of online friendships, the novel is a love letter to book bloggers, complete with cupcake recipes and Jewish representation.
Her second novel, As If on Cue (2021), dives into the world of musical theater, exploring rivalries and romance with a playful nod to High School Musical. Finally Fitz (2024), a spin-off, is a queer fake-dating romcom set in New York City, showcasing Kanter’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt themes of self-acceptance. Her debut adult novel, Friends With Benefits, marks her expansion into new genres, proving her versatility.
Kanter’s writing style is vibrant and accessible, with a focus on ambitious girls, soft boys, and themes of identity, friendship, and love. Her stories resonate with teens and adults alike, offering a fresh take on the challenges of growing up in a digital age. Whether she’s writing about book blogging or fake relationships, Kanter’s narratives are as sweet and satisfying as the cupcakes she describes.
Why Marisa Kanter Matters
Marisa Kanter’s impact lies in her ability to capture the nuances of modern teenage life, from the thrill of online connections to the awkwardness of IRL crushes. Her authentic portrayal of Jewish and queer identities adds depth to the YA genre, making her books a beacon for readers seeking representation. By drawing on her publishing experience, Kanter crafts stories that feel both personal and universal, resonating with book lovers and romcom fans.
As a rising star, Kanter is shaping the future of young adult fiction with her inclusive, relatable narratives. Her work reminds us that stories can bridge the gap between our online and offline selves, fostering connection in a fragmented world. With each new release, she’s building a legacy of love stories that leave readers swooning and craving more.
- Born: Suburbs of Boston, Massachusetts
- Key Works: What I Like About You, As If on Cue, Finally Fitz, Friends With Benefits
- Fun Fact: Kanter is an avid crocheter who makes her own wardrobe!
Snag What I Like About You and dive into Marisa Kanter’s sweet, swoon-worthy world of YA romance! Whether you’re a teen or just young at heart, her stories are the perfect recipe for a cozy reading escape.