Tom McAllister

Tom McAllister is an American author known for his contemporary fiction and memoir. He is the author of the novels "How to Be Safe" and "The Young Widower's Handbook," as well as the memoir "Bury Me in My Jersey." His shorter works have appeared in publications such as Best American Nonrequired Reading, The Millions, and The Rumpus. McAllister serves as the non-fiction editor of Barrelhouse magazine and co-hosts the weekly Book Fight! podcast.

A graduate of the Iowa Writers' Workshop, McAllister writes with a direct, visceral style that explores personal experiences and human relationships. His characters are deeply drawn, resonating with readers through their authenticity. In addition to his writing career, McAllister is an Associate Professor in the English Department at Temple University. He continues to produce stand-alone works that reflect his passion for storytelling and connection with his audience.
Standalone Novels
# Title Year
1 The Young Widower's Handbook 2017
2 How to Be Safe 2018
Non-Fiction Books
# Title Year
1 Bury Me in My Jersey 2010
The Best American: Nonrequired Reading Books
# Title Year
1 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2011 2011
2 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2012 2011
3 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2013 2013
4 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2014 2014
5 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2015 2015
6 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2016 2016
7 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2017 2017
8 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2018 2018
9 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2019 2019
Tom McAllister Anthologies
# Title Year
1 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2011 2011
2 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2015 2015
3 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2012 2011
4 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2013 2013
5 Unstuck #3 2014
6 The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2014 2014