Picture a storyteller whose camera and pen weave tales of courage and identity—meet Susan Kuklin! Born in 1941, this American photographer and writer has spent decades crafting nonfiction books that shine a light on tough topics like transgender youth and capital punishment. With a knack for blending vivid imagery with heartfelt narratives, Kuklin’s work invites young readers to see the world through others’ eyes, sparking empathy and curiosity.
From her Philadelphia roots to her New York City studio, Kuklin’s journey is one of passion and purpose. Her books, often aimed at children and young adults, tackle complex issues with grace, earning her awards and, occasionally, a spot on banned book lists. Ready to dive into her story? Let’s go!
The Making of Susan Kuklin
Born on September 6, 1941, in Philadelphia, Susan Kuklin grew up surrounded by art, theater, and lively dinner table talks about social justice. She studied theater at New York University, earning a B.S. in 1963 and an M.A. in 1966, with dreams of acting and directing. Her love for the stage taught her to see the big picture, a skill she later poured into photography. After teaching English in New York City schools and film studies at the University of Tennessee, Kuklin found her calling as a photojournalist in 1974, blending her visual artistry with storytelling.
Susan Kuklin’s Unforgettable Stories
Kuklin’s books are a masterclass in tackling tough topics with sensitivity. Her 2014 book, Beyond Magenta: Transgender and Nonbinary Teens Speak Out, is a groundbreaking collection of interviews and photographs that share the raw, real stories of transgender youth. It earned a Stonewall Honor but also faced bans for its candid take on gender identity. Similarly, No Choirboy: Murder, Violence, and Teenagers on Death Row (2008) dives into the lives of incarcerated teens, offering a searing look at the justice system.
Her earlier work, Fighting Back: What Some People Are Doing About AIDS (1988), captured the human side of the AIDS crisis through volunteers’ stories, earning praise for its emotional depth. We Are Here to Stay: Voices of Undocumented Young Adults (2019) gives voice to undocumented immigrants, using empty frames instead of photos to protect their identities after DACA’s repeal. Kuklin’s style—blending investigative interviews with striking photography—makes complex issues accessible and deeply personal, especially for teen readers.
She doesn’t shy away from lighter topics either. Books like Dance!, co-authored with Bill T. Jones, and Hoops with Swoopes, featuring WNBA star Sheryl Swoopes, celebrate movement and athleticism, reflecting Kuklin’s lifelong love of dance and theater.
Why Susan Kuklin Matters
Susan Kuklin’s work has left a lasting mark on nonfiction for young readers. By giving voice to marginalized groups—whether transgender teens, refugees, or incarcerated youth—she fosters empathy and challenges stereotypes. Her books have won accolades like the Christopher Award and have been named Best Books by the American Library Association, but they’ve also stirred controversy, landing on banned book lists for their bold topics. This duality speaks to her impact: Kuklin doesn’t just tell stories; she starts conversations that shape how young people see the world.
Her ability to connect with subjects, from ballet dancers to death row inmates, makes her a unique voice in children’s literature. Kuklin’s legacy is one of courage, urging readers to embrace diverse perspectives and question the status quo.
About Susan Kuklin
- Born: September 6, 1941, in Philadelphia, PA
- Key Works: Beyond Magenta, No Choirboy, Fighting Back, We Are Here to Stay
- Awards: Stonewall Honor, Christopher Award, ALA Best Books
- Hobbies: Dance, gardening, reading Chinese and Japanese fiction
Snag Beyond Magenta or No Choirboy and dive into Susan Kuklin’s powerful world of nonfiction storytelling!