E. Lockhart

E. Lockhart is the pen name of American author Emily Jenkins, best known for her sharp, emotionally resonant young adult fiction. Born in 1967, Lockhart has written across genres, from children’s books under her real name to bestselling YA novels under her pseudonym. She is widely celebrated for her ability to blend suspenseful storytelling with psychological depth, crafting narratives that explore themes of identity, privilege, feminism, and the complexities of growing up.

Her breakout novel, The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks (2008), was a finalist for the National Book Award and a Printz Honor Book. It established her reputation as a writer unafraid to challenge gender roles and power structures, following a witty and rebellious teenage girl navigating the traditions of an elite boarding school. Lockhart’s most famous work, We Were Liars (2014), became a New York Times bestseller and a modern YA classic, praised for its haunting prose, intricate family drama, and shocking twist ending. The book’s success was followed by Family of Liars (2022), a prequel that further explores the secrets of the wealthy Sinclair family.

Beyond these standout titles, Lockhart has also written Genuine Fraud (2017), a psychological thriller that plays with nonlinear storytelling and questions of truth and morality. Her work is notable for its experimentation with structure, voice, and narrative form, often pushing the boundaries of traditional YA fiction.

Lockhart earned a PhD in English literature from Columbia University, a background that informs her literary approach and sharp, layered writing style. She continues to inspire readers with stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking, appealing to teens and adults alike. With her fearless exploration of privilege, power, and the hidden truths people carry, E. Lockhart has secured her place as one of the most influential voices in contemporary young adult literature.