Picture a nonbinary storyteller from Richmond, Virginia, weaving spine-chilling tales of werewolves and magic—meet Rose Szabo! With their debut novel What Big Teeth, Szabo has carved a unique niche in young adult literature, blending horror and fantasy with deep explorations of identity and belonging. Their stories, rich with Gothic vibes and queer perspectives, have captivated readers worldwide.
Born and raised in Richmond, Szabo’s love for storytelling sprouted early, fueled by a passion for literature, tabletop games, and fashion. Now a celebrated author and educator, they’re redefining young adult fiction with their hauntingly beautiful narratives.
The Making of Rose Szabo
Rose Szabo’s journey began in Richmond, Virginia, where their childhood was steeped in books and imagination. With a Master’s in English from the University of Maine and an MFA in Creative Writing from Virginia Commonwealth University, Szabo honed their craft while teaching writing at VCU. Their early works—short stories and essays exploring monsters, gender, and sexuality—laid the groundwork for their distinctive voice. Influences like Ray Bradbury and Gothic traditions shaped their storytelling, while their nonbinary identity and love for material culture added layers of depth to their narratives.
Rose Szabo’s Unforgettable Stories
Szabo’s debut, What Big Teeth (2021), is a Gothic fantasy that follows Eleanor Zarrin, a teen navigating her monstrous family’s secrets after years at boarding school. This thrilling blend of horror and coming-of-age themes introduces Szabo’s knack for world-building and emotional resonance. Their follow-up, We All Fall Down (2022), kicks off the River City Duology, a dark fantasy exploring queer teens, magic, and societal decay in a fading magical city. Szabo’s writing style is immersive, balancing eerie atmospheres with poignant themes of identity, belonging, and queerness.
Their short stories, published in magazines like See the Elephant and Quaint, showcase their versatility, often delving into horror and speculative fiction. Szabo’s ability to weave personal and societal issues—like queerness and systemic injustice—into fantastical narratives sets them apart. Their stories don’t just scare; they invite readers to reflect on their own identities and communities.
Why Rose Szabo Matters
Rose Szabo’s impact on young adult literature lies in their fearless exploration of identity and belonging, particularly through a queer lens. Their stories resonate with teens and adults alike, offering representation and emotional depth in genres often dominated by traditional narratives. By tackling heavy topics like family dynamics and societal collapse within fantastical settings, Szabo makes complex issues accessible and engaging. Their role as an educator and union leader at VCU further amplifies their influence, inspiring new writers to embrace their unique voices.
As a rising star, Szabo’s work challenges conventions, blending horror’s thrills with fantasy’s wonder. Their growing fanbase eagerly awaits the next chapter of the River City Duology, cementing their place in contemporary fiction.
- Born: Richmond, Virginia
- Key Works: What Big Teeth (2021), We All Fall Down (2022)
- Genres: Young Adult Horror, Fantasy
- Notable: Teaches at Virginia Commonwealth University
Snag What Big Teeth and dive into Rose Szabo’s thrilling world of monsters and magic!