Becky Albertalli

Becky Albertalli is a New York Times bestselling author known for her contributions to young adult fiction and LGBTQ+ literature. Before becoming an author, Albertalli earned a doctorate in clinical psychology from George Washington University and worked as a psychologist specializing in children, teens, LGBTQ+ youth, and gender-nonconforming young people. Her background in adolescent identity and emotional development informs the authenticity found in her novels.

Albertalli's debut novel, "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda," is a coming-of-age story about a closeted gay teenager. The book was longlisted for the National Book Award for Young People's Literature and won the William C. Morris Award, presented by the American Library Association. "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" was adapted into the film "Love, Simon" and inspired the television series "Love, Victor," on which Albertalli served as a consultant. She expanded the "Simonverse" with companion novels including "The Upside of Unrequited" and "Leah on the Offbeat," the latter of which won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fiction.

Albertalli has co-authored "What If It's Us" and "Here's to Us" with Adam Silvera, as well as "Yes No Maybe So" with Aisha Saeed. Her novella "Love, Creekwood" supported LGBTQ+ causes, with all proceeds donated to The Trevor Project. Her novel "Imogen, Obviously" became a New York Times bestseller and received a Stonewall Book Award Honor from the American Library Association for its portrayal of the LGBTQ+ experience. Other works include "Amelia, If Only."

Albertalli publicly identifies as bisexual, an experience that informs her storytelling and advocacy for queer representation in literature. Her expertise as a psychologist and her personal experiences contribute to her role as a voice on identity, self-discovery, and belonging. Albertalli's work, which spans novels and screen adaptations, continues to influence the conversation around LGBTQ+ youth and representation in young adult fiction.