Nathanael Lessore author page

Nathanael Lessore biography

Nathanael Lessore is a British author acclaimed for his contemporary young adult fiction that captures the vibrancy and challenges of teenage life. His narratives often draw from his upbringing in South East London, offering readers authentic and relatable stories.

Born in Camberwell, South East London, Lessore is one of eight children to French and Madagascan parents. He spent much of his life in Peckham and has also lived in Paris, Strasbourg, and Singapore. After graduating from the University of East London with a degree in Creative Writing, he initially pursued a career in marketing before turning to writing full-time.

Lessore’s debut novel, Steady For This, was published in 2023 and received critical acclaim. It was shortlisted for the 2024 Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing and won the Branford Boase Award the same year. His second novel, King of Nothing, continued his success, being shortlisted for the 2025 Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing and the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize for Older Readers.

His works are known for their humour, emotional depth, and exploration of themes such as identity, friendship, and societal expectations. Lessore aims to portray his South East London childhood as a warm and adventurous world, providing representation that he felt was lacking during his youth.

In addition to his novels, Lessore engages with young readers through school visits and literary events, encouraging a love for reading and storytelling. He continues to write stories that resonate with teenagers, reflecting their experiences and challenges with authenticity and compassion.

• Author Instagram and school visit details