M. Van Arlen writes novel-length stories about queer, neurodivergent characters finding connection in unforgiving contexts.

All the Ways We Stay Alive is Arlen’s debut title, and follows Will Grant as he navigates his mother’s last days alongside a budding attraction to her hospice doctor. In the ruins of loss, Will has to decide if love is worth the pain and vulnerability of letting yourself be seen when everything you knew has fallen away.

Curious the vibes of AtWWSA? Here’s a curated chapter-by-chapter playlist:

• “FLAMENCO” by Beyoncé (tour version)
• “Dancing on My Own” by Robyn
• “Crush” by Zara Larsson
• “Million Years Ago” by Adele
• “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna
• “Whyyawannabringmedown” by Kelly Clarkson
• “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
• “Lost One (Live)” by Jazmine Sullivan
• “Trampoline” by SHAED (or the Kelly Clarkson cover)
• “PROTECTOR” by Beyoncé
• “We Need to Talk” by Tayla Parx
• “I Know a Place” by MUNA
• “Remedy” by Adele
• “Love’s Train” by Silk Sonic
• “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
• “Things I Didn’t Say” by Adam Lambert
• “Breaking Down” by Florence and the Machine
• “Can You Blame Me (ft. Lucky Daye)” by Kehlani
• “Don’t Tell My Mom” by Reneé Rapp
• “xanny” by Billie Eilish
• “into the black hole” by Labrinth
• “Material Girl” by Madonna
• “Reunion” by Betty Who
• “7 rings” by Ariana Grande
• “ALLIGATOR BITES NEVER HEAL” by Doechii
• “River” by Miley Cyrus
• “Comfortable” by H.E.R.
• “Ghost” by Demi Lovato
• “Saturn’s Return (Girls Trip)” by Zara Larsson et al.
• “Address in the Stars” by Caitlin & Will