Emma Hooper, a talented Canadian writer, musician, and poet, has made significant contributions to contemporary literature. Born on January first, nineteen eighty-four, in Alberta, she has captivated readers with her unique storytelling and lyrical prose. Her most notable work, the novel Our Homesick Songs, was longlisted for the prestigious 2018 Scotiabank Giller Prize, showcasing her ability to weave intricate narratives that resonate with audiences.
After completing her Bachelor of Arts in music and writing at the University of Alberta, Hooper relocated to England in two thousand four. She further honed her craft by earning a Master of Arts in creative writing from Bath Spa University, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in creative and critical writing at the University of East Anglia, which she completed in two thousand ten. Her academic journey laid the foundation for her teaching career at Bath Spa University, where she has inspired countless aspiring writers.
Hooper's debut novel, Etta and Otto and Russell and James, published in two thousand fifteen, garnered critical acclaim and was shortlisted for the amazon.ca First Novel Award. This was followed by Our Homesick Songs in two thousand eighteen, further establishing her reputation as a formidable voice in literature. In two thousand twenty-three, her work We Should Not Be Afraid of the Sky was longlisted for the inaugural Carol Shields Prize for Fiction, a testament to her continued relevance in the literary world.
In addition to her writing, Hooper is dedicated to teaching and mentoring. She regularly conducts workshops for Arvon and leads annual writing courses in Spain alongside fellow author Samantha Harvey, sharing her passion for storytelling with a new generation of writers.