Picture a Philly-born wordsmith who weaves tales of love, loss, and football fandom with a sharp, relatable edge—meet Tom McAllister! This Philadelphia author, podcaster, and professor has carved a niche in contemporary American literature with his heartfelt memoirs, witty novels, and incisive essays. From gritty sports obsessions to tender explorations of grief, McAllister’s work captures the messy beauty of human experience with humor and heart.
The Making of Tom McAllister
Born on March 7, 1982, in Philadelphia, Tom McAllister grew up steeped in the city’s vibrant culture and die-hard sports fandom. His love for reading and writing sparked in seventh grade, setting the stage for a literary career. After graduating from La Salle University in 2004, he honed his craft at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, earning an MFA in 2006. These early years, marked by personal loss and a passion for storytelling, shaped his direct, emotionally resonant style.
Tom McAllister’s Unforgettable Stories
McAllister’s debut memoir, Bury Me in My Jersey (2010), is a love letter to Philadelphia, his late father, and the Eagles. It blends humor and heartache, chronicling his journey through grief and fandom with raw honesty. His first novel, The Young Widower’s Handbook (2017), follows a widower’s quirky cross-country quest, earning praise as a 'remarkable debut' for its blend of wit and sorrow. How to Be Safe (2018), a satirical take on gun violence and media frenzy, showcases his knack for tackling social issues with biting humor. His upcoming essay collection, It All Felt Impossible (2025), promises intimate reflections on each year of his life, cementing his reputation for poignant, accessible prose.
McAllister’s style is conversational yet profound, often exploring themes of loss, identity, and modern relationships. His essays, published in outlets like The Rumpus and The Millions, tackle everything from mass shootings to literary life, earning spots in anthologies like Best American Nonrequired Reading. Whether through fiction or nonfiction, he invites readers into his world with authenticity and a touch of Philly grit.
Why Tom McAllister Matters
Tom McAllister’s impact lies in his ability to make the personal universal. His stories resonate with readers navigating love, grief, or societal chaos, offering solace through humor and insight. As nonfiction editor at Barrelhouse and co-host of the Book Fight! podcast, he fosters literary community, blending scholarly rigor with approachable charm. His work at Temple University and now Rutgers-Camden inspires students to find their voices, ensuring his influence ripples through the next generation of writers.
- Birth Date: March 7, 1982
- Key Works: Bury Me in My Jersey, The Young Widower’s Handbook, How to Be Safe
- Notable Role: Co-host of Book Fight! podcast
Snag The Young Widower’s Handbook and dive into Tom McAllister’s heartfelt, humorous world—your bookshelf will thank you!