Neal Shusterman, born November 12, 1962, is an American writer primarily known for his young adult fiction. His career began shortly after college, leading to a prolific output of novels and screenwriting credits. Shusterman's work has garnered significant critical acclaim, including the 2015 National Book Award for Young People's Literature for 'Challenger Deep' and a Michael L. Printz Honor for 'Scythe'. He also received the Margaret Edwards Award in 2024 for his lasting impact on teen literature.

Raised in Brooklyn and later Mexico City, Shusterman's international upbringing influenced his perspective. He pursued higher education at the University of California, Irvine, where he studied psychology and theater. His literary success has led to film and television adaptations of his novels, such as 'Unwind' and 'Scythe'. Shusterman has also written for television series like 'Goosebumps' and 'Animorphs'. He continues to be a recognized voice in young adult literature, with many of his works receiving awards and honors.

Born on November 12, 1962, Neal Shusterman spent his formative years in Brooklyn, New York, and later moved to Mexico City at age 16 with his family. This international experience is noted to have provided him with a broader worldview and increased self-assurance. He completed his high school education at the American School Foundation in Mexico City. Shusterman then attended the University of California, Irvine, where he pursued a dual major in psychology and theater, also participating as a member of the varsity swim team.

Shusterman's writing career launched soon after his university studies, securing both a book deal and a screenwriting job within his first year. He has since authored numerous books, particularly in the young adult genre, earning a substantial number of accolades. Notable awards include the 2005 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award and the 2008 California Young Reader Medal for 'The Schwa Was Here', and the 2015 National Book Award for 'Challenger Deep'. His novel 'Scythe' received a Michael L. Printz Honor in 2017. In 2024, he was honored with the Margaret Edwards Award for his significant contributions to writing for teenagers. His work has also been recognized internationally, with multiple nominations and a win at the Deutscher Jugendliteraturpreis.

Several of Neal Shusterman's novels have been optioned for film and television adaptations. The dystopian novel 'Unwind' is in development as a television series with Constantin Film, while 'Scythe' is being adapted into a feature film by Universal. 'Challenger Deep' was acquired by Disney+ for a film adaptation. Beyond novels, Shusterman has contributed to television, writing for shows such as Disney Channel's 'Pixel Perfect', 'Goosebumps', and 'Animorphs'. He has also been involved in creating interactive mystery games and has written graphic novels and short story collections.

“Having an international experience changed my life, giving me a fresh perspective on the world, and a sense of confidence I might not have otherwise.”