Marie Lu, born Xiwei Lu on July 11, 1984, is an American writer specializing in young adult science fiction and fantasy. She was born in Wuxi, China, and later moved with her family to the United States in 1989, at the age of five. Lu grew up in various cities in Texas and Louisiana, learning English through writing. She pursued higher education at the University of Southern California, studying political science and biology, and also gained experience as an artist intern at Disney Interactive Studios. Currently residing in Los Angeles, she lives with her husband, their son born in 2019, and their dogs.

Lu's literary career began with her debut novel, Legend, published in 2011. This novel, the first in a trilogy set in a dystopian future, was inspired by the conflict depicted in Les Miserables. Following Legend, she published Prodigy and Champion in 2013. She then launched her fantasy series, The Young Elites, in 2014, which continued with The Rose Society and The Midnight Star. Her other notable series include Warcross, Skyhunter, Stars and Smoke, and The New Alchemists. She also contributed to the DC Icons series with Batman: Nightwalker and wrote a standalone novel, The Kingdom of Back.

Marie Lu is recognized for her contributions to young adult literature, primarily within the science fiction and fantasy genres. Her works often explore complex societal structures and character conflicts. The Legend series, for example, is set in a militarized and dystopian future, drawing inspiration from historical narratives and the dramatic tension found in works like Les Miserables, which Lu aimed to adapt into a young adult context. This focus on societal control, rebellion, and the struggle between opposing forces forms a recurring theme in her writing, engaging readers with intricate world-building and character-driven plots.

Lu's journey into writing began during her childhood in the United States, where she learned English by crafting stories. Her academic background at the University of Southern California, where she studied political science and biology, likely informed the thematic depth and conceptual frameworks within her novels. Her internship as an artist at Disney Interactive Studios also suggests an early engagement with narrative creation and visual storytelling. This diverse background appears to have shaped her approach to developing imaginative worlds and compelling narratives that resonate with a young adult audience.