Abby Woodcroft, raised in Bar Harbor, grew up near Acadia National Park, nurturing her passion for nature and writing inspired by her park ranger father.
Yuan Li, an only child from Beijing, grew up in a literary household. She studied Creative Writing at Peking University and explores themes of romance in her writing.
Julianne Santos grew up in La Jolla, California, surrounded by the ocean, influenced by her mother’s marine biology career and her family's love for nature.
Julian Carmichael, born in Brooklyn Heights, grew up in a culturally rich environment, fostering his passion for literature and the arts from a young age.
Carmen Delgado, born in Santiago, Chile, grew up in a musical home. She is a writer and editor focused on cross-cultural relationships and modern urban life.
Rina Tanaka grew up in suburban Tokyo, influenced by her professor father and floral designer mother, fostering a love for art, culture, and meaningful discussions.
James Harrington, a rural West Virginia native from a coal mining family, emphasizes perseverance and community in his writing, blending regional traditions with universal themes.
Kaylee Harrington grew up in Myrtle Beach, helping at her parents' café. Her love for reading flourished amidst the tourism-driven environment of the Grand Strand.
Ebony Johnson, raised in Charleston's Gullah Geechee heritage, was inspired by family stories and local history, shaping her passion for cultural exploration in her writing.
Marcus Chambers grew up in a Jamaican American household in D.C., where his parents worked hard to provide opportunities while honoring their Caribbean roots.