Justin Torres is an eminent American novelist known for his poignant storytelling and dynamic prose. Born in 1980, Torres grew up in upstate New York, a background that reflects in his narrative themes and characters. His literary journey began with his education at the prestigious Iowa Writers' Workshop, where he honed his craft and emerged as a significant voice in contemporary fiction.

Torres' first novel, We the Animals, is a semi-autobiographical work that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity. The novel received critical acclaim, garnering the First Novelist Award and becoming a finalist for the Publishing Triangle Award and a nominee for the NAACP Image Award. The adaptation of his novel into a film further cemented his status in the literary world when it won the Next Innovator Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

His ascent in the literary community continued with his second novel, Blackouts, which secured the prestigious 2023 National Book Award for Fiction. Beyond his novels, Torres' writing has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as The New Yorker, Granta, Tin House, and Glimmer Train.

Amidst his writing career, Torres has also dedicated himself to education, taking up the role of Assistant Professor of English at the University of California, Los Angeles. His work has not only earned him literary accolades but also prestigious fellowships, including the Rolón United States Artist Fellowship in Literature and the Wallace Stegner Fellowship at Stanford.

Apart from writing, Torres' life experience is as eclectic as his fiction, with past roles ranging from a farmhand to a dog-walker, creative writing teacher, and bookseller. His multifaceted life experiences continue to enrich his storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.