Picture a storyteller who weaves ghostly tales that linger like mist over a quiet lake—meet Nova Ren Suma! This New York Times bestselling author has captivated young adult readers with her haunting novels, blending magical realism with raw human emotion. Known for works like The Walls Around Us and Imaginary Girls, Suma’s stories challenge societal norms and explore the complexities of identity, making her a standout voice in contemporary YA literature.
With an MFA from Columbia University and a background in book publishing, Suma crafts narratives that feel both otherworldly and deeply personal. Her ability to tackle tough topics—grief, betrayal, and prejudice—with sensitivity and a touch of the supernatural has earned her critical acclaim, including two Edgar Award finalist nods. Ready to dive into her eerie, unforgettable world? Let’s explore Nova Ren Suma’s journey!
The Making of Nova Ren Suma
Born in Queens, New York, Nova Ren Suma grew up in the Hudson Valley, a setting that often seeps into her lyrical prose. Her childhood was shaped by movement—living in Saugerties until age five, then Pennington, New Jersey, after her parents’ divorce, before settling in Woodstock, New York, as a teen. The Ashokan Reservoir, a frequent haunt, inspired the dreamy backdrop of Imaginary Girls. Suma’s passion for storytelling sparked at twelve, when she discovered Margaret Atwood’s works, igniting her desire to write. She studied ballet from six to sixteen, a discipline that later informed the ethereal grace of The Walls Around Us. After earning her MFA, she honed her craft in publishing before stepping into the spotlight as an author.
Nova Ren Suma’s Unforgettable Stories
Suma’s novels are a mesmerizing blend of magical realism, psychological thriller, and coming-of-age drama. Her breakout, Imaginary Girls, follows two sisters bound by a supernatural connection, set against the haunting Ashokan Reservoir. It’s a tale of love and secrets, named an Outstanding Book for the College Bound by YALSA. The Walls Around Us, a #1 New York Times bestseller, intertwines the lives of a ballerina and a girl in juvenile detention, weaving a ghostly narrative of guilt and revenge. This novel, a two-time Edgar Award finalist, showcases Suma’s knack for surreal twists. A Room Away from the Wolves explores a girl’s escape to a mysterious boarding house, delving into themes of abuse and resilience. Her upcoming novel, Wake the Wild Creatures (May 2025), promises a fierce, lyrical story of a teen reclaiming her roots in a world scarred by misogyny and disconnection.
Suma’s style is distinctive—her prose is poetic, her settings almost characters themselves. She teases the edges of horror and paranormal, blending genres to create stories that defy labels. Whether exploring sisterhood, societal prejudice, or personal trauma, her work invites readers to question reality and embrace the uncanny. As co-editor of Foreshadow: Stories to Celebrate the Magic of Reading & Writing YA, she’s also championed new voices, amplifying the power of YA storytelling.
Why Nova Ren Suma Matters
Nova Ren Suma’s impact on young adult literature lies in her ability to merge the magical with the real, offering readers a lens to examine societal issues through a subversive, emotional narrative. Her stories resonate with teens and adults alike, encouraging them to confront uncomfortable truths about identity, power, and justice. As a MacDowell and Yaddo fellow, and a teacher at institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Suma has inspired countless writers to embrace their unique voices. Her work continues to shape YA literature, proving that stories can be both haunting and healing.
- Born: Queens, New York
- Key Works: The Walls Around Us, Imaginary Girls, A Room Away from the Wolves
- Awards: Two-time Edgar Award finalist, #1 New York Times bestseller
- Upcoming: Wake the Wild Creatures (May 2025)
Snag The Walls Around Us and dive into Nova Ren Suma’s spellbinding world of magical realism and raw emotion!