Picture a North Carolina storyteller who spun interstellar adventures and magical quests into New York Times bestsellers—meet Scott Reintgen! Born in Pennsylvania and raised in North Carolina, this former teacher turned author crafts science fiction and young adult novels that pulse with vivid worlds and diverse characters. From his debut Nyxia to the enchanting Waxways series, Reintgen’s stories captivate readers with their thrilling stakes and heartfelt themes.
With a knack for storytelling honed among fourteen cousins and a passion for empowering his students, Reintgen’s journey from classroom to bestseller list is as inspiring as his books. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this literary trailblazer whose imagination knows no bounds.
The Making of Scott Reintgen
Scott Reintgen grew up in North Carolina, where living on the same street as fourteen cousins made him the family’s go-to storyteller. This early role sparked a love for narrative, leading him to study literature at UNC-Chapel Hill and earn a master’s in teaching from NC State. As an English and Creative Writing teacher, Reintgen noticed a lack of representation in books for his students, inspiring him to write stories where diverse characters shine. His debut novel, Nyxia, was born from this mission, launching his full-time writing career after a publishing deal that followed his move to Switzerland with his wife, Katie.
Scott Reintgen’s Unforgettable Stories
Reintgen’s bibliography is a treasure trove of science fiction and fantasy, blending high-stakes plots with rich world-building. His Nyxia Triad (Nyxia, Nyxia Unleashed, Nyxia Uprising) follows Emmett Atwater, a teen competing in a cutthroat space mission to mine a powerful substance. Critics like Marie Lu praised its “high-octane” thrills, comparing it to The 100 meets Illuminae. The Waxways series, starting with A Door in the Dark, a New York Times bestseller, weaves magic and mystery in a fantasy realm, showcasing Reintgen’s knack for intricate plots.
The Ashlords duology introduces phoenix horse races in a world of alchemy and rivalry, earning comparisons to Red Rising. For younger readers, the Talespinners series, beginning with Saving Fable, offers whimsical adventures, while the Celia Cleary series, including The Problem with Prophecies, blends humor and heart. Reintgen’s style—fast-paced, character-driven, and inclusive—reflects his belief that every reader deserves to see themselves “vibrant and victorious” on the page.
His upcoming Dragonships series, launching in October 2024, promises more epic adventures. Reintgen’s ability to craft diverse casts and immersive settings makes his work stand out, earning starred reviews from Kirkus and School Library Journal for their wit and depth.
Why Scott Reintgen Matters
Scott Reintgen’s impact lies in his commitment to representation and storytelling that resonates with underserved readers. His books, inspired by his students, feature characters from varied backgrounds, challenging the status quo in young adult fiction. By visiting over 700 schools and offering writing workshops, Reintgen inspires aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of persistence and craft. His success, including a six-figure book advance and bestseller status, proves that diverse stories can thrive commercially.
Reintgen’s influence extends beyond books. His teaching roots and online courses foster a new generation of writers, while his engaging social media presence connects him with fans. As he continues to explore new genres and series, Reintgen’s legacy as a storyteller who amplifies unheard voices grows stronger.
- Born: Pennsylvania, raised in North Carolina
- Key Works: Nyxia Triad, Waxways series, Ashlords duology, Talespinners series
- Notable Achievement: New York Times bestseller for A Door in the Dark
- Fun Fact: Survives on cookie dough and his sons’ smiles
Ready to blast off into Scott Reintgen’s thrilling worlds? Snag Nyxia or A Door in the Dark and lose yourself in his electrifying science fiction and fantasy adventures!