Picture a California dreamer spinning tales of friendship, identity, and the messy beauty of human connection—meet Rufi Thorpe! With her sharp wit and heart-tugging prose, this contemporary novelist has carved a niche in literary fiction, captivating readers with stories that feel like late-night chats with your best friend. From her debut novel to her latest gem, Thorpe’s work dives deep into the complexities of relationships, making her a standout voice in modern literature.
The Making of Rufi Thorpe
Born in California, Rufi Thorpe grew up as the only child of a single mother, finding solace in books during a childhood she describes as 'unhappy and weenie-ish.' Her love for storytelling took her to Phillips Exeter Academy, then to New York’s New School, where she majored in Literature and Creative Writing. After earning her MFA from the University of Virginia in 2009, Thorpe returned to California, balancing teaching and writing while raising two sons with her husband. Her eclectic journey—waiting tables, teaching academic writing, and soaking up life’s quirks—shaped her empathetic, vibrant narratives.
Rufi Thorpe’s Unforgettable Stories
Thorpe burst onto the scene with her 2014 debut, The Girls from Corona Del Mar, a poignant tale of lifelong friendship tested by tragedy. Long-listed for the International Dylan Thomas Prize and the Flaherty-Dunnan First Novel Prize, it showcased her knack for blending raw emotion with sharp insight. Her second novel, Dear Fang, With Love (2016), follows a father and daughter navigating mental illness and family secrets in Lithuania, weaving history and heart with finesse.
In 2020, The Knockout Queen cemented Thorpe’s reputation, earning a PEN/Faulkner Award finalist nod. This darkly comic coming-of-age story explores identity and violence through the unlikely friendship of a tall, athletic girl and a gay teen in a California suburb. Her 2024 release, Margo’s Got Money Troubles, is a bold, funny bildungsroman about a young mother embracing sex work and wrestling culture. Currently being adapted for TV by A24 and AppleTV, it highlights Thorpe’s playful yet profound take on empowerment and societal taboos. Her style—laced with humor, empathy, and philosophical tension—makes every page a journey into the human soul.
Why Rufi Thorpe Matters
Rufi Thorpe’s work resonates because it dares to explore the messy, unspoken parts of life—friendship’s betrayals, identity’s struggles, and society’s contradictions. Her novels challenge readers to rethink stereotypes, from sex workers to suburban teens, while wrapping tough topics in accessible, witty prose. Critics praise her for crafting stories that feel both universal and deeply personal, earning her a passionate fanbase and critical acclaim. As she continues to push boundaries, Thorpe’s influence on contemporary fiction grows, inspiring readers to embrace life’s complexities with courage and humor.
About Rufi Thorpe
- Birthplace: California, USA
- Key Works: The Girls from Corona Del Mar (2014), Dear Fang, With Love (2016), The Knockout Queen (2020), Margo’s Got Money Troubles (2024)
- Awards: PEN/Faulkner Award finalist (2021), long-listed for International Dylan Thomas Prize (2014)
- Fun Fact: Thorpe teaches at The Book Incubator, helping aspiring writers find their voice.
Ready to dive into Rufi Thorpe’s world of wit and wisdom? Snag Margo’s Got Money Troubles and get lost in her vibrant, soulful storytelling!