Picture an American storyteller who weaves humor, heartache, and human quirks into unforgettable novels—meet Michael Kun! Born in 1962, Kun is a lawyer by day and a literary maestro by night, crafting stories that blend wit with profound insights. After a mysterious 13-year hiatus, he returned with a vengeance, delivering critically acclaimed works that have hooked readers with their sharp dialogue and emotional depth.
From his debut novel to his latest, Kun’s ability to navigate the messy beauty of relationships has earned him a loyal following. Whether you’re chuckling at his comedic flair or tearing up over his poignant moments, Kun’s books are a rollercoaster you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this unique voice in contemporary fiction!
The Making of Michael Kun
Born on November 28, 1962, in Hempstead, New York, Michael Kun grew up with a knack for storytelling. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and the University of Virginia School of Law, he balanced legal briefs with literary dreams. His first novel, A Thousand Benjamins, hit shelves in 1990 while he was still in law school, earning praise for its heartfelt exploration of grief. But then, Kun vanished from the literary scene for 13 years, sparking rumors of his demise—only to return with a bang in 2003, proving his pen was sharper than ever.
Influenced by the likes of J.D. Salinger, Kun honed a style that’s both accessible and deeply affecting. His dual career as a trial lawyer in Los Angeles, where he lives with his wife Amy and daughter Paige, fuels his ability to craft authentic, relatable characters who grapple with life’s absurdities.
Michael Kun’s Unforgettable Stories
Kun’s bibliography is a treasure trove of humor and humanity. His 2003 novel, The Locklear Letters (later re-released as Eat Wheaties!), is an epistolary gem about Sid Straw, a salesman whose obsession with a celebrity classmate spirals hilariously out of control. Adapted into a 2021 film, it showcases Kun’s knack for blending comedy with pathos. You Poor Monster (2005), a Baltimore “Book of the Year” and Barnes & Noble “Discover Great New Writers” pick, follows a lawyer navigating a bizarre divorce case, earning raves for its humane comedy.
We Are Still Tornadoes (2016), co-written with Susan Mullen, captures the ’80s through letters between childhood friends, blending nostalgia with raw emotion. Critics called it a “must-read” for its authentic voice. Kun’s latest, The Allergic Boy Versus the Left-Handed Girl (2021), tackles plagiarism and memory with dark humor, cementing his reputation for inventive narratives. His style—witty, conversational, and often epistolary—invites readers to eavesdrop on characters’ lives, making every page feel personal.
Beyond novels, Kun’s short story collection Corrections to My Memoirs and co-authored “Uncyclopedia” books on baseball, football, and movies highlight his versatility. His stories, often set in everyday settings, explore themes of love, loss, and the lies we tell ourselves, all delivered with a Salinger-esque charm.
Why Michael Kun Matters
Michael Kun’s impact lies in his ability to make the ordinary extraordinary. His novels resonate with readers who crave stories that are equal parts funny and profound, earning praise from outlets like The Baltimore Sun for their “off-kilter worldview.” By blending legal precision with literary flair, Kun offers a fresh perspective on contemporary fiction, appealing to fans of authors like Nick Hornby or Jonathan Tropper.
His return after a 13-year absence is a testament to his resilience, inspiring aspiring writers to persevere. Kun’s work, though not yet mainstream, has carved a niche for those who love character-driven stories with heart. His influence is felt in the quiet moments when readers laugh, cry, or nod in recognition at his universal truths.
- Born: November 28, 1962, Hempstead, New York
- Key Works: A Thousand Benjamins, The Locklear Letters, You Poor Monster, We Are Still Tornadoes
- Awards: Baltimore “Book of the Year” for You Poor Monster
- Fun Fact: Kun has never had a cavity!
Snag We Are Still Tornadoes or The Locklear Letters and dive into Michael Kun’s witty, heartfelt world—you’ll be hooked!