Brendan Kiely

About the Author

Brendan Kiely is an acclaimed author and educator whose work fearlessly explores the intersections of race, identity, and social justice in contemporary America. A former high school English teacher, Kiely draws from his experiences to craft narratives that resonate with young readers, challenging them to confront systemic inequalities and personal biases. His debut novel, co-authored with Jason Reynolds, All American Boys (Caitlyn Dlouhy), became a national bestseller and a staple in diversity discussions, earning widespread praise for its raw portrayal of racial violence and resilience. Through his writing, Kiely advocates for empathy and change, blending heartfelt storytelling with unflinching realism to illuminate the human cost of prejudice. He holds an MFA in Creative Writing and continues to inspire through his books, lectures, and commitment to youth empowerment.