Picture a Utah storyteller who spins tales of superheroes, self-discovery, and punk rock rebellion—meet Preston Norton! This bisexual, slightly genderqueer author has carved a unique niche in young adult fiction, blending fantasy, humor, and coming-of-age themes that resonate with teens navigating life’s big questions. With a knack for crafting vibrant characters and twist-filled plots, Norton’s novels are like a playlist of heart and heroics.
From teaching environmental science to mentoring those in recovery, Norton’s diverse experiences fuel stories that are as authentic as they are imaginative. Their work, celebrated with awards like the 2016 Utah Book Award, invites readers into worlds where misfits find their strength and hope shines through chaos.
The Making of Preston Norton
Born and raised in Utah, Preston Norton’s journey to authorship was anything but ordinary. A self-professed nerd for anime, Tarantino films, and Radiohead, Norton’s creative spark ignited early, attempting a novel at just eleven years old. Their path wound through teaching seventh and ninth-grade English, mentoring individuals with substance use disorders, and even mowing lawns, each role shaping their empathetic storytelling. Norton’s identity as bisexual and slightly genderqueer adds depth to their narratives, reflecting a commitment to authentic representation.
After earning a degree in English Education, Norton settled in Provo, Utah, with their wife, Erin. Their varied experiences—combined with a love for speculative fiction—set the stage for a writing career that captures the messiness and magic of adolescence.
Preston Norton’s Unforgettable Stories
Norton’s novels are a whirlwind of fantasy, superheroics, and raw emotion, often exploring themes of identity, resistance, and unlikely friendships. Neanderthal Opens the Door to the Universe (2018) follows Cliff Hubbard, a towering teen nicknamed Neanderthal, who embarks on a mission to improve his high school alongside a mysterious ally. Praised for its snarky commentary and emotional depth, it earned a spot on the American Library Association’s 2019 Best Fiction for Young Adults list.
Marrow (2015), a 2016 Utah Book Award winner, dives into superhero fantasy with Marrow, a fourteen-year-old prodigy at a training institute for aspiring heroes. Paired with a washed-up mentor, Marrow uncovers a supervillain’s plot while grappling with personal struggles. Readers love its action-packed twists and quirky characters. Hopepunk (2022) blends sci-fi, rock music, and social justice, following sisters Hope and Faith as they fight a dystopian hate movement with their band’s rebellious spirit.
Norton’s style is conversational and cinematic, with a knack for balancing humor and heartache. Their stories often feature underdogs who defy expectations, making them perfect for teens seeking both thrills and introspection.
Why Preston Norton Matters
Preston Norton’s impact lies in their ability to craft stories that speak to the outsider in all of us. By weaving queer identities, mental health struggles, and moral dilemmas into fantastical settings, Norton creates safe spaces for readers to explore their own identities. Their work has inspired a new generation of YA readers, particularly those drawn to hopepunk—a subgenre Norton champions, emphasizing optimism and resistance in dark times.
Beyond their books, Norton’s journey as a teacher and mentor reflects a commitment to uplifting others, making their stories not just entertaining but profoundly human. Their influence is felt in classrooms, book clubs, and among fans who see themselves in their flawed, fierce protagonists.
- Born: Utah, USA
- Key Works: Neanderthal Opens the Door to the Universe, Marrow, Hopepunk, Where I End and You Begin
- Awards: 2016 Utah Book Award for Marrow, 2019 ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults for Neanderthal
Snag Hopepunk or Marrow and dive into Preston Norton’s vibrant world of heroes, rebels, and heart!