Picture an American storyteller who weaves tales of gritty resilience and youthful courage—meet Steve Watkins! This acclaimed young adult author, professor, and yoga enthusiast has captured hearts with novels like the Golden Kite Award-winning Down Sand Mountain and the poignant short story collection My Chaos Theory. From Fredericksburg, Virginia, Watkins balances a vibrant writing career with teaching, child advocacy, and a passion for storytelling that resonates with teens and adults alike.
The Making of Steve Watkins
Born on October 9, 1954, in Alexandria, Virginia, Steve Watkins grew up with a curiosity for stories and justice. After earning a Ph.D. from Florida State University in 1990, he embarked on a multifaceted career, blending academia with activism. Watkins taught journalism, creative writing, and Vietnam War literature at the University of Mary Washington for over two decades, shaping young minds while honing his narrative craft. His early work as a journalist, contributing to outlets like The Nation and Poets & Writers, laid the foundation for his unflinching, empathetic storytelling.
Steve Watkins’s Unforgettable Stories
Watkins’s young adult novels are raw, heartfelt, and often set against the backdrop of real-world struggles. His debut, Down Sand Mountain (2008), a coming-of-age tale set in the segregated South of the 1960s, won the 2009 Golden Kite Award for its vivid portrayal of racial tensions and personal growth. What Comes After (2011) follows Iris, a teen navigating abuse and foster care, showcasing Watkins’s knack for strong, complex female protagonists. Great Falls (2016) tackles the emotional toll of war through a Marine veteran’s bond with his younger brother, blending suspense with compassion. His short story collection, My Chaos Theory (2006), a finalist for the Paterson Fiction Prize, features quirky, introspective tales of men and boys at life’s crossroads, earning praise for its emotional depth.
Watkins’s writing style is unsparing yet hopeful, often exploring themes of trauma, redemption, and resilience. His middle-grade Ghosts of War series, including titles like The Secret of Midway and Lost at Khe Sanh, mixes historical adventure with teenage camaraderie, appealing to younger readers. Whether crafting novels or short stories, Watkins grounds his narratives in authentic settings—often his beloved Fredericksburg—making his work relatable and immersive.
Why Steve Watkins Matters
Steve Watkins’s impact extends beyond the page. His stories give voice to marginalized youth, from foster kids to war-affected teens, fostering empathy in readers. As a professor, he inspired countless students at the University of Mary Washington, blending literature with real-world issues like the Vietnam War. His advocacy with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) reflects his commitment to abused and neglected children, mirroring the themes of justice in his writing. Watkins’s yoga instruction and community involvement, including co-founding Dragonfly Yoga Studio, show a holistic approach to life that enriches his storytelling.
- Born: October 9, 1954, Alexandria, Virginia
- Key Works: Down Sand Mountain, What Comes After, Great Falls, My Chaos Theory
- Awards: 2009 Golden Kite Award, Pushcart Prize (1992), Paterson Fiction Prize finalist
- Fun Fact: Watkins is a Unitarian Universalist and co-directs religious education at his church.
Snag Down Sand Mountain or My Chaos Theory and dive into Steve Watkins’s gripping, heartfelt world of young adult fiction!