Picture an American storyteller who spun fairy tales into a global phenomenon—meet Soman Chainani! Best known for his enchanting series The School for Good and Evil, Chainani blends magic, mischief, and moral complexity to captivate readers worldwide. From his Harvard days to a Netflix blockbuster, his journey proves that following your passion can rewrite your story.
The Making of Soman Chainani
Born on August 2, 1979, in Miami, Florida, Soman Chainani grew up in Key Biscayne, where his Indian-American family stood out in a tight-knit community. As a child, he found solace in Disney films and fairy tales, sparking a lifelong love for storytelling. At Harvard University, he graduated summa cum laude in 2001 with a degree in English and American Literature, diving deep into fairy tales with a thesis on why evil women make irresistible villains. After a brief stint in pharmaceutical consulting, Chainani pivoted to Columbia University’s MFA Film Program, honing his craft as a screenwriter and director before finding his true calling in novels.
Soman Chainani’s Unforgettable Stories
Chainani’s debut, The School for Good and Evil (2013), launched a six-book series that’s sold over 4.5 million copies, been translated into 35 languages, and inspired a Netflix film that topped charts in 80+ countries. The series follows best friends Sophie and Agatha navigating a magical school where kids train to become fairy-tale heroes or villains. With witty prose and subversive twists, Chainani reimagines classic tales, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and the blurred line between good and evil. His follow-ups—A World Without Princes, The Last Ever After, and One True King—all hit the New York Times Bestseller List, cementing his status as a YA fantasy titan.
In 2021, Chainani released Beasts and Beauty: Dangerous Tales, a collection of reimagined fairy tales that earned praise for its dark, lush storytelling. Kirkus Reviews called it 'expertly crafted,' and it’s slated for a Sony 3000 TV series. His prequel series, starting with Rise of the School for Good and Evil (2022), delves into the origins of his magical world. Looking ahead, Chainani’s upcoming novel Young World (2026) promises a bold shift to a global political thriller, showcasing his versatility.
Why Soman Chainani Matters
Soman Chainani’s work transcends traditional fairy tales, challenging stereotypes and empowering readers to embrace their complexities. His stories resonate with teens and adults alike, offering lessons on resilience and self-discovery wrapped in fantastical adventures. With over 800 school visits worldwide, Chainani inspires young readers to see reading as a path to a better life. His global impact—spanning books, films, and upcoming TV projects—marks him as a storyteller who’s reshaping modern fantasy.
- Born: August 2, 1979, in Miami, Florida
- Key Works: The School for Good and Evil series, Beasts and Beauty, Rise of the School for Good and Evil
- Awards: Nominated for the Waterstone Prize for Children’s Literature, Out100 honoree
- Fun Fact: He’s a die-hard tennis player who competed in tournaments globally.
About Soman Chainani
Ready to dive into a world of fairy tales with a twist? Grab The School for Good and Evil and let Soman Chainani’s magical storytelling sweep you away!