There’s something magical about a book that makes you feel seen and Sarah Allen has built a career writing stories that do just that. Her novels offer comfort, courage, and curiosity for young readers navigating big feelings. Whether it’s through characters managing Turner Syndrome, anxiety, grief, or deep family bonds, Allen’s work consistently champions the idea that we can find joy and strength in the unlikeliest of places.
Based in Orlando, Florida, Sarah is the award-winning author of What Stars Are Made Of, Breathing Underwater, The Nightmare House, and Monster Tree. A champion for neurodiverse characters and emotional storytelling, she crafts fiction for middle-grade readers that brims with heart and imagination. Her work has been recognized as a Jr. Library Guild selection, a Whitney Award winner, and one of A Mighty Girl’s Best Of picks.
Sarah also writes scripts and comics, draws silly cartoons, and pens articles for children’s publications like Ranger Rick. Her creativity overflows from the page and into the hearts of readers nationwide. Whether she’s teaching at a writing conference or snuggling her two fluffy black cats, Morticia and Timicin, Sarah stays close to the wonder she writes about. Each of her middle grade novels offers a unique blend of heart, humor, and healing. Here’s a closer look at the stories she’s shared with the world:
What Stars Are Made Of
Libby Monroe is great at science and being optimistic, but not so great at sitting still or saying the right thing. Born with Turner Syndrome, she’s used to overcoming challenges. When her sister announces a pregnancy, Libby enters a science contest to help financially and makes a deal with the universe that just might change her world. A beautiful story of sisterhood and believing in what makes us shine.
Buy the book
Breathing Underwater
On a cross-country road trip, Olivia is determined to help her sister Ruth smile again. Through a photo scavenger hunt and a return to their favorite beach, Olivia captures memories and uncovers hard truths about mental health and love. It serves as a a deeply moving story about loyalty, depression, and the quiet courage it takes to keep loving someone through their darkest moments.
Buy the book
The Nightmare House
Penny Hope’s nightmares are getting worse and they’re starting to bleed into real life. Haunted by the terrifying Fear Maker, Penny writes poetry to cope, until she’s forced to face him head-on in a house of living nightmares. With chilling suspense and an empowering emotional arc, this novel tackles anxiety with lyrical grace and supernatural flair.
Buy the book
Monster Tree
Linus and his mom are starting over after loss, but something’s not right about the strange tree next door. When pets start disappearing and claw marks show up around the neighborhood, Linus suspects their neighbor and that monstrous tree. With the help of new friends, he uncovers a creepy mystery and finds healing through courage and creativity.
Buy the book
Why It’s a Must-Read This Summer
Sarah Allen’s books offer a refreshing dose of empathy, imagination, and emotional truth, which is perfect for readers seeking stories that balance real-life challenges with hope and resilience. From exploring neurodiversity and sisterhood to confronting grief, anxiety, and the magic of everyday courage, her writing invites young readers (and the young at heart) to see beauty in the unexpected. These are the kind of books that stay with you long after the last page, making them ideal companions for a summer of growth, discovery, and heartfelt adventure. Whether you’re looking for a touch of magic, a dose of real-world emotion, or an adventure of the heart, Sarah Allen’s books are sure to make a lasting impression.
Learn more at: SarahAllenBooks.com
The Chundria Brownlow Show 
Leave a comment