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.
“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
North of Beautiful
Return to Me
Nothing but the Truth (and a few white lies)
A Blind Spot for Boys
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!
