Cynthia Leitich Smith

Cynthia Leitich Smith, a citizen of the Muscogee Nation, is an American author whose literary work primarily targets children and young adults. Her writing frequently explores the experiences of contemporary Native Americans. Beyond realistic fiction, Smith has also penned picture books and young adult gothic fantasies, some of which delve into supernatural themes like vampires and shapeshifters. She has been recognized by the press as an authority on children's and young adult literature and maintains a website dedicated to resources in this field.

Smith's educational background includes a degree in journalism from the University of Kansas and a law degree from the University of Michigan. Her career has involved teaching positions, including a long tenure at the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA program. She also plays a significant role in the publishing world as the author-curator for Heartdrum, a Native-focused imprint of HarperCollins. Her works are published by both Heartdrum and Candlewick Press, and she has received notable awards for her contributions to literature.

Cynthia Leitich Smith's literary output is characterized by its focus on the lives of modern-day Native Americans, reflecting her own heritage as a citizen of the Muscogee Nation. Her fiction for children and young adults often centers on these contemporary experiences, providing readers with relatable characters and narratives. In addition to her realistic works, Smith has explored genres such as gothic fantasy, introducing elements of the supernatural, including vampires, angels, and shapeshifters. These fantasy novels often blend multiple genres, incorporating mystery, suspense, comedy, and romance, appealing to an older young adult audience. Her work has been recognized for its contribution to diverse storytelling within children's and YA literature.

Beyond her writing, Cynthia Leitich Smith has made significant contributions to the literary community through her involvement in publishing and education. For over two decades, she served on the faculty of the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA program, holding the inaugural Katherine Paterson Endowed Chair in Writing for Children and Young Adults. She is also the author-curator for Heartdrum, a publishing imprint established by HarperCollins that specifically focuses on Native American voices and stories. This role highlights her commitment to promoting Native perspectives within the publishing industry. Smith's expertise in children's and YA literature is widely acknowledged, and she actively shares resources through her website, further supporting emerging writers and readers.