Steven Rowley is a highly acclaimed author, known for his poignant and humorous novels. A graduate of Emerson College, Rowley has a diverse writing background that includes work as a newspaper columnist, freelance writer, and screenwriter. Originally from Portland, Maine, Rowley has made a name for himself in the literary world with his unique storytelling and compelling characters.
Rowley's debut novel, Lily and the Octopus, was a critical and commercial success. Published in 2016, the book was named a Washington Post Notable Book of the Year and has been translated into twenty languages. The Editor, Rowley's second novel, was also met with widespread acclaim. NPR and Esquire Magazine both named it as one of the Best Books of 2019. Rowley's most recent novel, The Guncle, was a finalist for the 2021 Goodreads Choice Awards for Novel of the Year and a semi-finalist for The Thurber Prize in American Humor.
In addition to his success as a novelist, Rowley has also won the prestigious Thurber Prize for American Humor. The 22nd Thurber Prize, awarded in 2021, recognized Rowley's exceptional talent for blending humor and emotion in his writing. With four novels under his belt and a growing international audience, Rowley is a prominent figure in contemporary literature. He currently resides in Palm Springs, CA with his husband, the writer Byron Lane.