Picture a vibrant storyteller who whisked readers to Paris with a single kiss—meet Stephanie Perkins! This New York Times bestselling author has charmed young adult readers worldwide with her heartfelt, swoon-worthy novels. Known for her contemporary romance trilogy, starting with Anna and the French Kiss, Perkins captures the butterflies and bittersweet moments of teenage love with a voice that feels like a warm hug.
Born in South Carolina and raised in Arizona, Perkins’s colorful life and love for books have shaped her into a beloved figure in young adult literature. Her stories, filled with vivid characters and emotional depth, have inspired fans and aspiring writers to chase their own happily-ever-afters.
The Making of Stephanie Perkins
Stephanie Perkins was born on November 24, 1981, in South Carolina, but her childhood in Arizona sparked her creative spirit. She studied writing at universities in California and Georgia, honing her craft while immersing herself in the world of books. Before becoming a novelist, Perkins worked as a bookseller and librarian, roles that fueled her passion for storytelling. Her love for romance and teenage emotions found a home in her writing, inspired by her own high school sweetheart—her husband, Jarrod, whom she met during those formative years.
Stephanie Perkins’s Unforgettable Stories
Perkins’s debut, Anna and the French Kiss (2010), follows Anna Oliphant, a teen sent to a Parisian boarding school where she falls for the charming Étienne St. Clair. The novel’s witty dialogue and romantic tension earned it a spot on NPR’s Best Teen Reads. Its companion novels, Lola and the Boy Next Door (2011) and Isla and the Happily Ever After (2014), weave interconnected stories of love and self-discovery, set against vibrant backdrops like San Francisco and Barcelona.
Beyond romance, Perkins explored horror with There’s Someone Inside Your House (2017), a slasher-inspired thriller adapted into a Netflix film. Her 2021 novel, The Woods Are Always Watching, delves into friendship and survival in a chilling forest setting. Perkins also edited and contributed to anthologies like My True Love Gave to Me and Summer Days and Summer Nights, showcasing her knack for curating romantic tales. Her writing blends emotional authenticity with cinematic settings, making readers feel every heartbeat and heartbreak.
Perkins’s style is intimate and immersive, with characters who feel like friends. Her themes of love, identity, and resilience resonate deeply with teens navigating their own journeys. Whether crafting a Parisian romance or a creepy thriller, she balances humor, heart, and tension with effortless grace.
Why Stephanie Perkins Matters
Stephanie Perkins has left an indelible mark on young adult literature by portraying teenage emotions with honesty and warmth. Her romance trilogy has become a touchstone for fans, praised by authors like Rainbow Rowell for capturing love “in real time and for good.” Her shift to horror expanded her range, proving her versatility and willingness to take risks. Perkins’s stories inspire readers to embrace their vulnerabilities and find joy in life’s messy moments.
Her influence extends beyond books. Through social media and fan interactions, Perkins fosters a sense of community, encouraging aspiring writers to tell their own stories. Her upcoming adult romance, Overdue (October 2025), promises to bring her signature charm to a new audience, cementing her legacy as a storyteller who makes hearts race.
About Stephanie Perkins
- Born: November 24, 1981, in South Carolina
- Key Works: Anna and the French Kiss, There’s Someone Inside Your House, Overdue
- Notable: Her novel There’s Someone Inside Your House was adapted into a Netflix film
- Fun Fact: Every room in her North Carolina home is painted a different rainbow color
Snag Anna and the French Kiss and dive into Stephanie Perkins’s world of romance and adventure—your heart will thank you!