Erin Stewart writes relatable, realistic fiction for tackles tough topics. Her most recent novel, THE WORDS WE KEEP, received the prestigious Schneider Family Book Award from the American Library Association for its portrayal of the disability experience. The novel features mental health themes such as anxiety in what Kirkus calls “a sprawling, engrossing read” with “an overpowering sense of hope underlined by an achingly sincere message: Speak up and get help if needed.”
Erin’s debut novel, SCARS LIKE WINGS, was a Junior Library Guild Selection, Amazon Editor’s Pick and winner of BookPal’s 2019 Outstanding Works of Literature award. School Library Journal called the book, which tells the story of a burn survivor’s quest for her new normal, “thought-provoking . . . will push readers to think deeply about empathy, hope, and resilience in the face of heartbreak.
Erin loves speaking with readers and students about her the writing process, the importance of story, as well as the value of using writing as an avenue to speak up about mental health issues.
“I hope I can fully articulate how meaningful Erin’s visit was was for our students. The importance of her thoughts transcended any typical author visit due to the themes expressed so honestly and carefully in The Words We Keep. Students felt comfortable opening up and asking some very honest questions because Erin allowed herself to be vulnerable to them, even though a Zoom screen. Our high schools are filled with high octane students who feel that if they let something slip, even for a second, their futures are on the line. It is a LOT of pressure, and seeing an adult who feels that same way sometimes gives them hope and reassurance. I had important conversations with students immediately after Erin’s visit ended, and I know that classroom teachers did as well. Erin has such a gift beyond written words on the page. It meant the world to us!” — Staci Vought, Troy Athens HS, 2023
