Picture a storyteller who weaves Norse mythology into modern America, crafting tales that pulse with magic and identity—meet Tessa Gratton! Born in 1980 on a military base in Okinawa, Japan, this genderfluid author has enchanted young adult fantasy readers with vivid world-building and evocative prose. From her nomadic childhood to her Kansas prairie home, Gratton’s journey fuels her spellbinding stories.
The Making of Tessa Gratton
Tessa Gratton’s early life was a whirlwind of adventure, shaped by her father’s U.S. Navy career. Moving across Japan, California, and England, she absorbed diverse cultures that later infused her writing. A degree in Gender Studies from the University of Kansas in 2003 honed her focus on identity, a recurring theme in her work. Initially torn between becoming a wizard or paleontologist, Gratton found her calling in storytelling, translating her love for Anglo-Saxon poetry and Beowulf into fantastical narratives.
Tessa Gratton’s Unforgettable Stories
Gratton’s novels blend mythology, romance, and self-discovery, earning her a spot as a New York Times bestselling author. Her United States of Asgard series, starting with The Lost Sun (2013), reimagines Norse gods in a modern America where trolls roam and Valkyries advise the president. The series’ lyrical prose and complex characters, like berserker Soren Bearstar, captivate readers. Similarly, her Blood Journals duology, beginning with Blood Magic (2011), explores American blood-based magic through teens Silla and Nick, blending gothic romance with mystery. Recent works like Strange Grace (2018), a queer fairy tale about a town’s devilish pact, and Chaos and Flame (2023), co-written with Justina Ireland, showcase her knack for dark, sensual fantasies. Gratton’s style—bold, poetic, and immersive—invites readers into worlds where magic mirrors human struggles.
Her upcoming epic fantasy, The Mercy Makers (2025), and contributions to Star Wars: The High Republic promise more genre-bending adventures. As Associate Director of Madcap Retreats, she also mentors aspiring writers, sharing her passion for crafting unforgettable tales.
Why Tessa Gratton Matters
Tessa Gratton’s impact lies in her ability to weave inclusive, thought-provoking stories that resonate with teens and adults alike. Her queer, nonbinary perspective enriches narratives, offering representation in fantasy—a genre often lacking diversity. Works like Night Shine and Moon Dark Smile explore genderfluidity and self-discovery, empowering readers to embrace their identities. Translated into 22 languages, her stories reach global audiences, earning Junior Library Guild selections and Otherwise Award nominations. By reimagining myths and challenging norms, Gratton inspires a new generation of fantasy lovers and writers.
- Born: 1980, Okinawa, Japan
- Key Works: Blood Magic, The Lost Sun, Strange Grace, Chaos and Flame
- Notable: New York Times bestselling author, genderfluid, Madcap Retreats mentor
Snag Strange Grace and dive into Tessa Gratton’s hauntingly beautiful fantasy worlds!