Daniel Jose Older

Daniel José Older is an accomplished American author, known for his works in the genres of urban fantasy and young adult novels. Older is the author of the Bone Street Rumba series, as well as other notable works such as the Shadowshaper Cypher series. He is a strong advocate for racial diversity and ensures that his protagonists come from a variety of racial backgrounds, reflecting the world we live in.

Before finding success as a writer, Older worked as an EMT in New York City, a job that he kept while writing during the night. He describes himself as an outsider who entered the world of writing to get his work out there and challenge people's perceptions. Older's experiences as an EMT have undoubtedly influenced his writing, providing a unique perspective that is reflected in his stories.

Daniel José Older is also a man of many talents, as he is not only a writer but also a paramedic and musician. He is of Latino origin and his works often touch on political, cultural, and social issues of today's world. Older currently resides in Brooklyn, New York City with his wife. He is a dedicated educator and has facilitated workshops on anti-oppression issues using storytelling and music at various prisons, universities, public schools, and popular religious houses.

Older's accolades include being a New York Times bestselling author for his Middle Grade historical fantasy series Dactyl Hill Squad, the Bone Street Rumba urban fantasy series, Star Wars: Last Shot, and the award-winning Young Adult series the Shadowshaper Cypher. He has won the International Latino Book Award and has been nominated for several other prestigious awards such as the Kirkus Prize, the Mythopoeic Award, the Locus Award, and the Andre Norton Award. Shadowshaper was also named one of Esquire's 80 Books Every Person Should Read. Older's thoughts on writing, his experiences as an NYC paramedic, and his music can be found on his website, YouTube channel, and Twitter account.