Becca Goldstein, raised in Beverly Hills, grew up in a Jewish family tied to the LA entertainment industry, attending film premieres and charity galas from an early age.
Oliver Wentworth, a Nantucket native, grew up in a family inn, exploring the island's maritime history and crafting stories inspired by its whaling past.
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.
Leslie Woodruff, raised in Boise’s North End, comes from a family with Idaho roots, blending agricultural tradition with a creative spirit through her parents' craft brewery.
Harriet Ojo, from Abuja, Nigeria, grew up in a family that valued education and community service, shaping her commitment to social issues and storytelling.
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.
Avery Townsend grew up in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, exploring nature and nurturing a love for travel and storytelling while working at her family's lakeside resort.
Leslie Woodruff, raised in Boise’s North End, comes from a family with Idaho roots, blending agricultural tradition with a creative spirit through her parents' craft brewery.
Dimitri Laskaris, born in Athens to restaurateurs, grew up in a vibrant environment rich in debates on politics, food, and philosophy, shaping his insights and writing style.
DeAndre Holloway, a Chicago native, grew up in a middle-class family. He is an acclaimed author and advocate for urban storytelling, deeply rooted in his city's culture.