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.
Aurora Vega, raised near Las Vegas, grew up in a family tied to the entertainment scene, experiencing both the glamor of the Strip and the warmth of local communities.
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.
Miles Chapin grew up in Boulder in a progressive, environmentally conscious family, with a passion for nature and community engagement from an early age.
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.
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.
Marc Devonte Prince is a gay Black man from Beaumont, Texas, advocating for resilience and community while prioritizing education amidst financial challenges.
Miles Chapin grew up in Boulder in a progressive, environmentally conscious family, with a passion for nature and community engagement from an early age.
Willow Fitzgerald, raised on a ranch near Bozeman, Montana, developed a love for the land and horses, shaping her journey as an author and environmental advocate.
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.
Lila Reeves is a Santa Fe native, raised in a boutique gallery, immersed in the region's art and culture, fostering her creative spirit from a young age.
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.