Picture an Iranian-American storyteller who spins tales of love, geeky adventures, and cultural identity with a dash of humor—meet Sarvenaz Tash! Born in Tehran and raised in New York, Tash has carved a unique space in young adult literature, crafting novels that resonate with teens and adults alike. Her witty, heartfelt stories explore the messy, beautiful journey of growing up, making her a beloved voice in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Sarvenaz Tash
Sarvenaz Tash was born in Tehran, Iran, and moved to Long Island, New York, where she grew up immersed in a blend of Persian and American cultures. Her love for storytelling bloomed early, sparked by voracious reading of authors like Beverly Cleary and Roald Dahl. After earning a BFA in Film and Television from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Tash dabbled in screenwriting and professional tweeting for Bravo and MTV before turning to novels. This eclectic background infuses her work with a cinematic flair and sharp, relatable dialogue.
Sarvenaz Tash’s Unforgettable Stories
Tash’s novels are a vibrant mix of romance, humor, and coming-of-age themes, often reflecting her Iranian-American heritage. The Geek’s Guide to Unrequited Love, a YALSA Top Ten Quick Pick, is a Comic Con-set rom-com about a lovelorn nerd confessing his feelings, praised for its charming characters and fandom love. Three Day Summer transports readers to the 1969 Woodstock Festival, weaving romance and historical vibes with a nod to the era’s hope and chaos. A Whole Song and Dance follows Nasrin, an Iranian-American freshman navigating NYU’s theater scene and parental expectations, earning acclaim for its witty musical theater references and authentic cultural voice. Tash’s style—light yet poignant—tackles identity, love, and self-discovery with a knack for making readers laugh and reflect.
Her adult rom-coms, co-written under the pseudonym Tash Skilton, like Ghosting: A Love Story, showcase her versatility, blending modern dating dilemmas with Nora Ephron-inspired charm. Tash’s ability to craft diverse, relatable characters and settings, from Brooklyn to virtual reality dating apps, sets her apart in the YA and romance genres.
Why Sarvenaz Tash Matters
Sarvenaz Tash’s impact lies in her authentic portrayal of the Iranian-American experience, amplifying underrepresented voices in YA literature. Her stories resonate with readers navigating cultural duality, offering both escapism and relatability. Awards from the American Library Association and Junior Library Guild highlight her influence, while her focus on reluctant readers makes her work accessible and engaging. Tash’s novels bridge cultural gaps, inviting readers to embrace their identities through laughter and heart.
- Born: Tehran, Iran
- Key Works: The Geek’s Guide to Unrequited Love, Three Day Summer, A Whole Song and Dance, Ghosting: A Love Story
- Awards: YALSA Top Ten Quick Pick, Amazon Best Book of the Year
- Fun Fact: Tash’s love for Woodstock inspired Three Day Summer!
Ready to dive into a world of geeky romance and cultural heart? Grab A Whole Song and Dance and let Sarvenaz Tash’s vibrant storytelling sweep you away!