Hi! I’m Justina.

I was fated to be a storyteller. After all, my middle name means illuminate, which is what I hope my novels do: shine a light in the world.

I’ve written six YA novels, one middle grade book, a picture book, and multiple storytelling guides. My work includes: WITH TWICE THE LOVE, DESSIE MEI, my love letter about belonging. NORTH OF BEAUTIFUL, a finalist for 9 state book awards. NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH (and a few white lies), winner of the Asian Pacific American Literature Award. I’m currently writing a few novels for adults along with my kidlit work—stay tuned!

While I have called Seattle, Sydney, and Shanghai home, I love traveling the world, writing wherever I am. My happy place is among book-ish people.

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WITH TWICE THE LOVE, DESSIE MEI

“As a Chinese adoptee, there are two media representations in my life in which I have truly felt represented. The first is the documentary ‘Somewhere Between’ and the second is WITH TWICE THE LOVE, DESSIE MEI.”
— Laney Allison, co-founder and president, China’s Children International

“Justina Chen is such a welcome voice in middle grade literature! With her engaging writing, readers will discover that America’s promise is for all of us.”
— Grace Lin, Newbery Honor winning author of Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

“When fate delivers a shocking surprise, Dessie’s life is turned-upside down. Family and friendship are tested in this wonderful heartfelt novel about what it means to belong.”
— Lisa Yee, Newbery Honor Winner

 

Lovely, Dark, and Deep

Lovely, Dark, and Deep

North of Beautiful

North of Beautiful

Return to Me

Return to Me

Nothing but the Truth (and a few white lies)

Nothing but the Truth (and a few white lies)

A Blind Spot for Boys

A Blind Spot for Boys

Girl Overboard

Girl Overboard

Speaking

Justina speaks regularly at schools and book festivals about writing, belonging, and living your best story. As well, Justina has crafted an all-new storytelling workshop specifically for librarians and library systems to win the hearts of constituents, LIBRARIES: OUT LOUD AND ON PURPOSE. Let’s chat about booking Justina to speak at your event!

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