Kacen Callender Books
Kacen Callender, born Kheryn Callender on September 19, 1989, in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, is an acclaimed author known for their impactful works in children’s and young adult literature. They gained recognition with their debut novel, Hurricane Child (2018), which won the Stonewall Book Award and the Lambda Literary Award. Callender’s writing often explores themes of identity, race, and belonging, reflecting their own experiences as a Black, queer, and trans individual. They hold a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Japanese from Sarah Lawrence College and an MFA from The New School. In addition to their literary achievements, Callender has been active in community support efforts, notably raising funds for Hurricane Irma relief in 2018. Their notable works include Felix Ever After, King and the Dragonflies, and the Islands of Blood and Storm series. Currently residing in Philadelphia, Callender continues to inspire readers with their diverse storytelling.