M. Van Arlen is the pen name of a researcher, academic, and lifelong reader in metro-Atlanta, Georgia. Arlen studied English as an undergraduate–much to some relatives’ chagrin–but ventured elsewhere as a graduate student, ultimately earning a PhD in Colorado. Currently, Arlen teaches courses on writing, race, and media while researching similar topics. Arlen sits on multiple professional boards and committees and holds a personal commitment to inclusive, anti-racist education. Arlen has published within academic venues, but All the Ways We Stay Alive is their first creative work.

Born and raised in suburban Georgia, Arlen has always enjoyed stories set in the US South, but always wished they showed greater representation. As a queer author, Arlen enjoys writing the stories of queer, neurodivergent characters experiencing an array of experiences set in or with ties to the South. Arlen is also secretly a hopeless romantic who still enjoys a good “happy for now.” While currently single, Arlen enjoys living with their senior chihuahua, who grows increasingly cantankerous, and traveling professionally and personally.