Picture a storyteller who turned heartbreak into heartwarming tales—meet Steven Rowley! This Portland, Maine, native has carved a niche in general fiction with his knack for blending humor, love, and loss. His debut, Lily and the Octopus, born from personal grief, launched him into literary stardom, captivating readers with its emotional depth and whimsical charm.
Rowley’s stories resonate because they’re fiercely human, exploring family, identity, and the bonds we hold dear. With bestselling novels like The Guncle and a knack for making readers laugh through tears, he’s become a beloved voice in contemporary fiction. Let’s dive into his journey, works, and why he’s a must-read!
The Making of Steven Rowley
Born in Portland, Maine, Steven Rowley grew up with a storyteller’s heart. A graduate of Emerson College, he honed his craft through freelance writing, newspaper columns, and screenwriting before novels became his calling. The loss of his beloved dachshund, Lily, to cancer sparked his literary breakthrough. What began as a short story to process grief evolved into his debut novel, a testament to his ability to transform personal pain into universal stories.
Steven Rowley’s Unforgettable Stories
Rowley’s debut, Lily and the Octopus (2016), is a poignant tale of Ted Flask and his aging dog, Lily. Infused with magical realism, it explores love and letting go, earning praise as a Washington Post Notable Book. His follow-up, The Editor (2019), dives into 1990s New York, where a writer’s novel catches the eye of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. This NPR Best Book of the Year blends humor with family dynamics.
The Guncle (2021), a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist and Thurber Prize winner, showcases Rowley’s comedic flair. It follows Patrick, a gay uncle turned guardian to his niece and nephew, navigating grief and growth with wit and warmth. The Celebrants (2023), a TODAY Show Read With Jenna pick, celebrates lifelong friendships through living ‘funerals,’ cementing Rowley’s signature style: heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply human.
Rowley’s writing sparkles with emotional honesty, often drawing from his life as a gay man. His stories, translated into twenty languages, weave universal themes—love, loss, and found family—with a playful tone that makes tough topics accessible. Whether it’s a dog or a dysfunctional family, Rowley finds the magic in the everyday.
Why Steven Rowley Matters
Steven Rowley’s impact lies in his ability to make readers feel seen. His stories, rooted in personal experience, resonate with dog lovers, LGBTQ+ readers, and anyone who’s loved fiercely. Winning the Thurber Prize for American Humor and earning spots on bestseller lists, he’s redefined contemporary fiction by proving humor and heart can coexist. With his works in development for film and TV, Rowley’s influence is only growing.
His authentic voice and commitment to emotional truth have built a devoted readership. In a world craving connection, Rowley’s tales of found family and resilience offer hope and laughter, making him a vital voice in modern literature.
- Birthplace: Portland, Maine
- Key Works: Lily and the Octopus, The Editor, The Guncle, The Celebrants, The Guncle Abroad
- Awards: 22nd Thurber Prize for American Humor (2022)
- Fun Fact: Lives in Palm Springs with his husband, writer Byron Lane, and their dogs
About Steven Rowley
Snag The Guncle or Lily and the Octopus and dive into Steven Rowley’s heartfelt, hilarious world! Whether you’re laughing or crying, his stories will stick with you long after the last page.