Picture a Baltimore-born wordsmith who spins humor and heart into stories that stick with you—meet R. Eric Thomas! This bestselling author, playwright, and screenwriter has carved a unique space in contemporary American literature, blending laugh-out-loud wit with sharp social commentary. From his National Bestseller Here for It to his award-winning YA novel Kings of B’more, Thomas’s work captures the messy, beautiful realities of identity, community, and modern life.
Known for his versatility, Thomas dances between genres—memoirs, YA fiction, plays, and even advice columns—with a voice that’s equal parts relatable and revolutionary. His knack for finding humor in the everyday, paired with his unflinching take on race, queerness, and mental health, makes him a storyteller for our times. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s go!
The Making of R. Eric Thomas
Born around 1982 in Baltimore, Maryland, R. Eric Thomas grew up navigating two worlds: the vibrant urban landscape of his childhood and the predominantly white suburban school his parents sent him to. This duality shaped his perspective, fueling his ability to code-switch and observe the absurdities of human behavior. After attending the Park School of Baltimore, he studied at Columbia University before transferring to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where he honed his playwriting skills.
Thomas’s career kicked off with a bang as a senior staff writer at Elle.com, where his daily humor column “Eric Reads the News” became a viral sensation, skewering pop culture and politics with razor-sharp wit. Hosting The Moth StorySlams in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., further sharpened his storytelling chops, setting the stage for his literary breakout.
R. Eric Thomas’s Unforgettable Stories
Thomas’s debut memoir, Here for It: Or, How to Save Your Soul in America (2020), is a riotous yet poignant essay collection that became a Read with Jenna pick on NBC’s Today show. Described by Lin-Manuel Miranda as “Sedaris-level laugh-out-loud funny,” it explores Thomas’s experiences as a Black, queer, Christian navigating a world that often felt unwelcoming. The book’s Lambda Literary Award finalist status cemented his literary cred.
His YA novel Kings of B’more (2022) is a love letter to Baltimore, following two Black queer teens on an epic day of adventure. Hailed by BuzzFeed as “infused with the joy of the best teen movies,” it earned a 2023 Stonewall Honor. Thomas also co-authored Reclaiming Her Time (2020), a vibrant biography of Rep. Maxine Waters, and released Congratulations, The Best Is Over! (2023), another essay collection blending humor and heartache. His plays, like the Lambda Literary Award-winning Mrs. Harrison, showcase his theatrical flair, tackling identity and connection with depth and humor.
Thomas’s style is a masterclass in balance: he’s hilarious yet heartfelt, accessible yet profound. His work often explores themes of belonging, resilience, and the power of storytelling, all delivered with a conversational charm that feels like catching up with a friend.
Why R. Eric Thomas Matters
R. Eric Thomas’s impact lies in his ability to make readers laugh, think, and feel seen. His stories amplify marginalized voices—Black, queer, and questioning—while inviting everyone to the table. As a mental health advocate, he’s open about his struggles, encouraging others to embrace vulnerability. His advice column “Asking Eric,” syndicated nationally, offers wisdom with his signature wit, reaching readers far beyond the page.
From Broadway-worthy plays to bestselling books, Thomas’s work reshapes how we talk about identity and community in America. He’s not just a writer—he’s a cultural connector, proving that humor and honesty can bridge divides. His growing influence in literature and media signals a legacy that’s only just beginning.
About R. Eric Thomas
- Born: c. 1982, Baltimore, Maryland
- Key Works: Here for It, Kings of B’more, Congratulations, The Best Is Over!, Mrs. Harrison
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award, Barrymore Award, Dramatists Guild Lanford Wilson Award
- Fun Fact: He’s a long-running host of The Moth StorySlams, captivating audiences with live storytelling.
Snag Here for It or Kings of B’more and dive into R. Eric Thomas’s world of wit, warmth, and wisdom—you won’t be disappointed!