Picture a small-town Michigan kid who spun his queer coming-of-age dreams into stories that spark joy and resilience—meet Robbie Couch! A rising star in young adult literature, Couch’s heartfelt novels, like his debut The Sky Blues, capture the messy, beautiful journey of LGBTQ+ teens with humor and hope. Now based in Los Angeles, he’s crafting tales that make readers laugh, cry, and cheer for love in all its forms.
The Making of Robbie Couch
Born and raised in Clio, Michigan, a rural town with fewer than 3,000 people, Robbie Couch grew up navigating the complexities of small-town life as a closeted gay teen. His experiences in a predominantly white, working-class community shaped his storytelling, blending nostalgia with the challenges of feeling different. After earning a journalism degree, Couch wrote for outlets like HuffPost and Upworthy, honing his knack for authentic narratives. A pivotal moment came in 2016, when the political climate and stories of LGBTQ+ youth homelessness inspired him to pivot to fiction, giving voice to marginalized teens.
Robbie Couch’s Unforgettable Stories
Couch’s debut, The Sky Blues (2021), follows Sky Baker, an openly gay teen in rural Michigan whose bold promposal plans are derailed by a homophobic hack. With witty dialogue and a rom-com vibe, the novel explores chosen family and self-acceptance, earning praise from authors like Becky Albertalli. His follow-up, Blaine for the Win (2022), reimagines Legally Blonde with a queer twist, as Blaine Bowers runs for class president to prove his worth. If I See You Again Tomorrow (2023), a New York Times bestseller, dives into speculative romance, trapping a gay teen in a time loop with a charming stranger. Couch’s style—heartfelt, inclusive, and peppered with pop culture—champions diverse characters, from Iraqi-American crushes to trans friends, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of modern youth.
His stories stand out for their optimism, tackling heavy topics like family rejection and bigotry with humor and hope. Couch’s ability to balance lighthearted rom-com moments with poignant themes has made him a beloved voice in queer YA literature, resonating with teens and adults alike.
Why Robbie Couch Matters
Robbie Couch’s work is a beacon for queer youth, especially those in small towns where acceptance can feel out of reach. By centering LGBTQ+ characters who find joy despite adversity, he challenges the narrative that queer stories must end in tragedy. His inclusive casts and focus on found family offer readers a sense of belonging, while his advocacy for diverse representation pushes the YA genre forward. Couch’s rise from a Michigan kid to a bestselling author inspires aspiring writers to tell their own stories, proving that authentic voices can change the world.
- Birthplace: Clio, Michigan
- Key Works: The Sky Blues, Blaine for the Win, If I See You Again Tomorrow
- Awards: The Sky Blues was a 2022 Barnes & Noble YA Book of the Year finalist
- Fun Fact: Couch has a lifelong fear of birds, sparked by a swan attack at age three!
Snag The Sky Blues and dive into Robbie Couch’s heartwarming world of queer joy and resilience!