Crystal Maldonado is a published American novelist, known for her work in young adult fiction. She is a writer with a lot of feelings and is passionate about creating romcoms for fat, brown girls. Her debut novel, "Fat Chance, Charlie Vega," was a 2021 New England Book Award winner, a Cosmopolitan Best New Book, and a POPSUGAR Best New YA Novel. The book explores the life of a fat, brown girl who navigates the complexities of teenage life while dealing with societal expectations and beauty standards.
Maldonado's writing is inspired by her personal experiences, and she aims to create stories that resonate with readers who may feel underrepresented in mainstream media. Her second novel, "No Filter and Other Lies," delves into the world of social media and the lies that people tell to themselves and others. The book highlights the pressures that young people face in the digital age and the impact it has on their self-esteem and relationships.
By day, Maldonado works in higher ed marketing, but by night, she transforms into a prolific writer who loves Beyoncé, glitter, shopping, and spending too much time on her phone. She is an active presence on social media and can be found on various platforms as @crystalwrote. Maldonado is also a contributor to several publications, including Latina, BuzzFeed, and the Hartford Courant. She lives in western Massachusetts with her husband, daughter, and dog. Maldonado's work is a testament to her commitment to creating authentic and relatable stories that celebrate diversity and body positivity.