Picture an American storyteller who spun a world where shadows vanish and memories fade—meet Peng Shepherd! Born in Phoenix, Arizona, this nationally bestselling author has captivated readers with her speculative fiction, blending science fiction, fantasy, and dystopian themes. Her debut, The Book of M, launched her into the literary spotlight, earning accolades and a devoted following.
With a knack for crafting stories that tilt reality just a few degrees, Shepherd draws from her global adventures and passion for storytelling. Her novels, praised by outlets like The Washington Post and NPR, explore what it means to be human in worlds both strange and familiar. Ready to dive into her mesmerizing tales?
The Making of Peng Shepherd
Peng Shepherd was born on May 12, 1986, in Phoenix, Arizona, where she grew up riding horses and training in classical ballet. The daughter of former Channel 12 anchor Lin Sue Cooney, Shepherd’s early love for stories was nurtured by her mother, who laminated her childhood tales. Her global journey took her to Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, London, Mexico City, and New York, shaping her unique perspective. After earning a BA in Chinese Language and Literature from Arizona State University, an MA from SOAS University of London, and an MFA in Creative Writing from New York University, she honed her craft, fueled by a lifelong passion for science fiction and fantasy.
Peng Shepherd’s Unforgettable Stories
Shepherd’s debut, The Book of M (2018), is a dystopian fantasy where a man’s shadow vanishes, triggering a global memory-loss epidemic. Praised by The Verge and NPR, it won the 2019 Neukom Institute Award and was optioned for television. Her sophomore novel, The Cartographers (2022), a speculative mystery about a magical gas station map, became a USA Today bestseller and a Washington Post Best Book of 2022. All This and More (2024) explores choice and happiness in a world of infinite possibilities, earning acclaim for its innovative narrative. The Future Library (2021) adds a shorter, evocative tale to her repertoire.
Shepherd’s style blends intricate plots with speculative elements, drawing comparisons to Borges and Bradbury. Her themes—memory, identity, and the human condition—resonate deeply, set against backdrops that feel eerily possible. Whether it’s a post-apocalyptic America or a map hiding deadly secrets, her prose captivates with its emotional depth and imaginative scope.
Why Peng Shepherd Matters
Peng Shepherd has carved a niche in speculative fiction, offering stories that challenge readers to question reality and humanity. Her work, translated into over ten languages, has sparked discussions on memory, choice, and connection, resonating globally. As a National Endowment for the Arts Fellow, she inspires emerging writers, proving that diverse experiences can fuel groundbreaking narratives. Her growing influence in literary circles and media adaptations signals a lasting impact.
- Born: May 12, 1986, Phoenix, Arizona
- Key Works: The Book of M, The Cartographers, All This and More, The Future Library
- Awards: 2019 Neukom Institute Award, 2020 NEA Fellowship
- Fun Fact: She’s lived in eight cities across four continents!
Snag The Book of M or The Cartographers and dive into Peng Shepherd’s spellbinding speculative worlds!