Matt de la Peña is a highly accomplished author, celebrated for his works in both fiction and screenwriting. His debut novel, "Ball Don't Lie," was met with critical acclaim and made into a major motion picture. De la Peña's subsequent novels have also been well-received, with many appearing on the New York Times bestseller list and receiving numerous awards and recognitions. These include the ALA-YALSA Best Book for Young Adults, the Notable Book for a Global Society, and the Junior Library Guild Selection, among others.
De la Peña's writing spans various genres and formats, encompassing young adult novels, picture books, short fiction, and essays. His works often explore themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of the human experience, resonating with readers of diverse backgrounds. Some of his notable books include "Mexican WhiteBoy," "We Were Here," "I Will Save You," and "The Living." His short fiction and essays have been featured in esteemed publications such as the New York Times, NPR.org, and various literary journals.
Beyond his writing, de la Peña is an engaged educator, committed to sharing his passion for creative writing with others. He holds an MFA in creative writing from San Diego State University and a BA from the University of the Pacific, where he played basketball on a full athletic scholarship. De la Peña currently resides in Brooklyn, New York, and continues to teach creative writing, visiting high schools and colleges throughout the country.