Picture a Philadelphia-born storyteller who spun tales of witty teens and ghostly mysteries—meet Maureen Johnson! This New York Times bestselling author has charmed young adult readers with her sharp humor, adventurous plots, and unforgettable characters. From the quirky charm of Suite Scarlett to the chilling Shades of London series, Johnson’s books are a delightful blend of heart and intrigue.
With a knack for crafting stories that feel like a chat with a clever friend, Johnson draws from her eclectic life—think bartending in London, studying at Columbia University, and even wrangling live tigers in Las Vegas. Her novels resonate with teens and adults alike, making her a standout voice in young adult literature.
The Making of Maureen Johnson
Born on February 16, 1973, in Philadelphia, Maureen Johnson grew up with a vegetarian streak and a dream of storytelling. She attended an all-girl Catholic high school before earning an English degree from the University of Delaware in 1995. Her early career was a whirlwind of odd jobs—literary manager for a Philly theater, waitress at a haunted-themed restaurant, and bartender in London’s Piccadilly Circus. These experiences shaped her knack for observing human quirks, which shine in her characters. Johnson later moved to New York City, earning an MFA in Writing from Columbia University, where she honed her craft and began her writing journey.
Maureen Johnson’s Unforgettable Stories
Johnson’s novels are a masterclass in blending humor, mystery, and heart. Her Suite Scarlett series, starting with the 2008 novel, follows Scarlett Martin, a teen navigating life in her family’s quirky New York City hotel. The book’s vibrant setting and sharp dialogue earned it a spot on the American Library Association’s Best Books for Young Adults 2009 list. In the Shades of London series, beginning with The Name of the Star (2011), Johnson dives into paranormal thrills, following Rory Deveaux, a teen who sees ghosts in a gritty, Jack the Ripper-inspired London. The series’ first book snagged an Edgar Award nomination for its gripping blend of mystery and wit.
Collaborations like Let It Snow (2008), co-written with John Green and Lauren Myracle, showcase her knack for heartfelt romance, hitting the New York Times bestseller list and inspiring a Netflix film. Truly Devious (2018) introduces Stevie Bell, a teen detective solving crimes at a Vermont academy, blending Agatha Christie vibes with modern sass. Johnson’s style—witty, immersive, and rich with complex characters—makes her stories feel like adventures you never want to end.
Her work extends beyond novels. Johnson has penned novellas like The Boy in the Smoke, a Shades of London prequel, and contributed to anthologies like The Bane Chronicles with Cassandra Clare. She’s also a vocal advocate for diversity in young adult literature, coordinating LeakyCon’s Lit Track to spark meaningful conversations about the genre.
Why Maureen Johnson Matters
Maureen Johnson’s impact on young adult fiction lies in her ability to craft stories that are both wildly entertaining and deeply relatable. Her characters—brave, flawed, and funny—mirror the complexities of teenage life, resonating with readers worldwide. Her books have been translated into 21 languages, and her online presence, especially on Twitter, where she’s hailed as a top follow, keeps her connected with fans. Johnson’s advocacy for inclusive storytelling and her role in literary communities like LeakyCon cement her as a trailblazer in shaping the future of young adult literature.
About Maureen Johnson
- Born: February 16, 1973, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: Suite Scarlett, Shades of London, Truly Devious, Let It Snow
- Awards: Edgar Award nomination for The Name of the Star (2012)
- Fun Fact: She’s a vegetarian who dreams of the perfect veggie Philly cheesesteak!
Snag Suite Scarlett or The Name of the Star and dive into Maureen Johnson’s witty, thrilling world of young adult fiction!