Picture a Canadian storyteller who turned the heartbreak of a school shooting into a heartfelt, humorous tale—meet Susin Nielsen! This award-winning author has captured the hearts of young adult readers with her poignant yet witty novels that tackle tough topics like bullying, broken families, and resilience. From her early days scripting for Degrassi to crafting bestselling books, Nielsen’s journey is as inspiring as her stories.
The Making of Susin Nielsen
Born in 1964, Susin Nielsen grew up in London and Chatham-Kent, Ontario, with a knack for storytelling that would later define her career. Her first big break came not with a pen, but with a catering tray on the set of Degrassi Junior High. The crew may have disliked her cooking, but they loved her writing spark. Nielsen penned 16 episodes for the iconic Canadian TV series, even playing a janitor named Louella Hawkins. This launched her into writing for over 20 Canadian shows, including Heartland and Family Law, before she turned her talents to young adult literature.
Susin Nielsen’s Unforgettable Stories
Nielsen’s novels are a masterclass in blending humor with heavy themes. Her debut, Word Nerd (2008), follows a quirky boy navigating bullying through his love of Scrabble, earning multiple Young Readers’ Choice Awards. The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen (2012), inspired by a line in Wally Lamb’s novel, explores the aftermath of a school shooting through the eyes of the shooter’s brother. It won the prestigious Governor General’s Literary Award and the Canadian Library Association’s Book of the Year. We Are All Made of Molecules (2015) tackles blended families with wit, earning a Governor General’s nomination. No Fixed Address (2018) shines a light on homelessness, showcasing Nielsen’s ability to make serious topics accessible and hopeful.
Her writing style is a unique blend of dark humor, vibrant characters, and emotional depth. Nielsen doesn’t shy away from tough issues—mental health, loss, or social struggles—but she infuses her stories with hope and resilience, making them resonate with teens and adults alike. Her books, translated into languages like Dutch, French, and Japanese, have a global reach, proving her universal appeal.
Why Susin Nielsen Matters
Susin Nielsen’s impact on young adult literature is profound. Her stories give voice to kids grappling with real-world challenges, offering empathy and understanding. Awards like the Vicky Metcalf Award for Literature for Young People (2019) recognize her ability to inspire Canadian youth. By tackling issues like bullying and homelessness with humor and heart, Nielsen encourages readers to face tough realities with courage. Her work reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there’s room for laughter and connection.
About Susin Nielsen
- Born: 1964, Canada
- Key Works: Word Nerd, The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen, We Are All Made of Molecules, No Fixed Address
- Awards: Governor General’s Literary Award (2012), Vicky Metcalf Award (2019)
- Fun Fact: She lives in Vancouver with two mischievous cats, Emily Brontë and Erwin Schrödinger.
Snag The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen and dive into Susin Nielsen’s heartfelt, hilarious world of young adult fiction!