Alex Aster

Alex Aster is a Colombian-American author known for her work in young adult fiction and middle grade literature. She is the author of the "Emblem Island" series, which includes the debut middle grade novel "Curse of the Night Witch." This novel received a Kirkus Star and was selected as one of Amazon's best children's books of the year. Aster began writing at age 13 and secured a publishing deal shortly before graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied creative writing.

Aster's journey in the publishing industry included marketing her young adult novel "Lightlark" on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram after it was initially rejected by multiple publishers. The book became a New York Times bestseller, set records for a young adult debut, and led to a movie deal prior to publication. The cover of "Lightlark" was displayed on the NASDAQ sign in New York City, contributing to its bestseller status at Barnes and Noble through pre-orders.

Aster is a #1 New York Times bestselling, #1 Publishers Weekly bestselling, #1 Indie bestselling, and USA Today bestselling author of the "Lightlark" series. The series has been sold in more than 30 countries, with over 4 million copies sold in the United States and more than 140 weeks spent on the New York Times Best Sellers list. The "Lightlark" series includes sequels "Nightbane" and "Skyshade," as well as novellas "Grim and Oro" and the fourth book, "Crowntide." The series' success resulted in a movie deal with Universal Pictures and Temple Hill, with Aster serving as executive producer.

Aster has a significant presence on social media, with more than 2 million followers and over half a billion views on her videos. She was recognized in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Expanding her repertoire, Aster published her debut adult novel, "Summer in the City," a romantic comedy that became a New York Times bestseller and was optioned for a feature film by New Line Cinema. She also announced an adult romantasy series, "Starside." Aster's career highlights the impact of digital marketing, perseverance, and community engagement in the contemporary publishing landscape.