Jess Verdi's headshot. A closeup taken outdoors.

Hi, I’m Jess! I write books for kids and teens about identity, family, acceptance, and love.

I live in New York with my partner, our daughter, and our scruffy weirdo dog.

I received my MFA in Writing for Children from The New School, but my day job is actually editing adult book club fiction, romance and romcoms, and upmarket commercial fiction. I’m currently Senior Editor at Alcove Press and Crooked Lane Books. I love these literary genres because they can be a much-needed distraction from the harsh realities of today’s world. And what’s more hopeful and uplifting than reading about people finding love, passion, and happiness despite the challenges thrown their way?

Thanks for visiting my site! If you’d like to get in touch with me directly, you can reach me on email or social media (links below).

If you’d like to reach out about author appearances, publicity events, publishing opportunities, etc., please contact my literary agent Kate McKean at kmckean@morhaimliterary.com.

Peace and love!