About Fabienne
Fabienne Josaphat is a Haitian-born author, poet, and screenwriter known for her lyrical prose and compelling storytelling. With an MFA in creative writing from Florida International University, she has made her mark in contemporary literature with her debut novel, Dancing in the Baron’s Shadow. Set during the brutal regime of François Duvalier, the novel explores themes of survival, brotherhood, and resistance, earning praise for its blend of suspense, humanity, and historical depth.
In 2023, Josaphat was awarded the PEN/Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction for her second novel, Kingdom of No Tomorrow. This prestigious award, established by Barbara Kingsolver, recognizes literature that addresses issues of social justice and the impact of culture and politics on human relationships.
Her writing is deeply influenced by Haiti’s rich cultural heritage and history, as well as the works of literary giants like Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Toni Morrison. Josaphat’s storytelling often delves into the complexities of revolution, resilience, and the immigrant experience, weaving together personal and political narratives that resonate with readers on multiple levels.
In addition to fiction, Josaphat’s work includes nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting. Her writing has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, Teen Vogue, The African American Review, and The Caribbean Writer. Her poetry has also been anthologized in Eight Miami Poets, and her short stories continue to appear in literary journals.
Based in South Florida, Josaphat remains dedicated to telling stories that illuminate the human condition, exploring identity, history, and the struggles of marginalized voices. Through her work, she continues to inspire and challenge readers, offering a powerful lens into both the personal and political spheres of life.
