Adrienne Kisner

Kisner considers the intersection of personal identity and social commentary through her compelling young adult novels. Her writing is rooted in her theological education from Boston University, where she obtained both a master's and a doctorate. This foundation allows her to infuse her work with nuanced themes of morality and introspection. Moreover, Kisner's MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts enables her to craft narratives that resonate with younger audiences. Her debut book, "Dear Rachel Maddow", inspired by Beverly Cleary's "Dear Mr. Henshaw", uses an epistolary format to explore the struggles of a high school student grappling with social and personal challenges. The author channels her frustrations and emotions into her work, creating stories that are both accessible and deeply layered.\n\nKisner's novels, including "The Confusion of Laurel Graham", not only engage young readers but also provide them with a lens to view broader societal issues. Her approach to storytelling is both cathartic and enlightening, offering readers an opportunity to reflect on their own lives while considering larger societal constructs. The impact of her work is underscored by numerous accolades, such as the 2016 PEN New England Susan P. Bloom Discovery Award for "Dear Rachel Maddow". Beyond her writing, Kisner is a dedicated mentor and educator, sharing her expertise with emerging writers through various teaching roles and mentorship programs. Her contributions extend to shaping new voices in literature, with all her mentees successfully advancing in their writing careers. This commitment to nurturing talent underscores her significant impact on the literary community and young adult fiction.