Will Kostakis
Born June 2, 1989 in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia • Next birthday: June 2, 2026
June 2, 1989
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia0
0 likesJune 2, 2026
214 days out12
Total visitsThe extraordinary journey of Will Kostakis began not in fame, but in quiet determination, a bold vision, and a resolve to transform uncertainty into stories. Born on 1989-06-02 in Sydney, Australia, he emerged from a working-class Greek-Australian background and navigated personal and cultural tensions with the same clarity that would later mark his novels. Looking back, his early win of the Sydney Morning Herald Young Writer of the Year award at 16 (for "Bing Me") proved critical because it set him on a path of writing while still in high school. He secured his first publishing contract in his final year at Newington College.
He published his debut YA novel, Loathing Lola (2008), while still a teenager, and then followed with The First Third (2013), which won the 2014 Inky Awards and was shortlisted for the Prime Minister's Literary Award. His third major novel, The Sidekicks (2016), continued his exploration of identity, friendship and loss. He expanded into fantasy with Monuments (2019) and Rebel Gods (2020), before returning to grounded fiction with We Could Be Something (2023), winner of the 2024 Prime Minister's Literary Award for Young Adult Fiction.
The shift proved critical because Kostakis faced intense public criticism of his young-author status and endured professional setbacks-some manuscripts and rejections that nearly derailed his ambition. Yet he persisted, blending creative narrative instinct with disciplined craft, and in doing so followed in the shadow of predecessors such as Melina Marchetta and John Marsden. His work, rooted in Greek-Australian culture, queer identity and adolescence, charts a resilient journey of overcoming silence, doubt and invisibility.
As a result, he has both entertained and challenged a generation of young readers, demonstrating that the personal and the universal can meet on the page. Even now, Will Kostakis's legacy reverberates through the worlds of young-adult literature, art, science, and human creativity, promising a richer, more inclusive future for storytelling.
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Career & Achievements
- Loathing Lola (2008)
- The First Third (2013)
- The Sidekicks (2016)
- Monuments (2019)
- Rebel Gods (2020)
- We Could Be Something (2023)
Personal Details
Latest News
New Ways Ministry
Will Kostakis describes unusual experience during Catholic school visit
On 12 March 2025, Australian YA author Will Kostakis visited a Catholic school for a five-day writing workshop and encountered resistance when the school asked to limit his talk on diversity. The article highlights how his identity and role as a queer writer intersected with the school's expectations. It underscores broader tensions faced by authors promoting inclusive topics in faith-based educational settings.
Books+Publishing
2025 ACT Literary Awards winners announced (does Kostakis figure?)
On 3 July 2025 the ACT Literary Awards announced their winners, representing major recognition in Australia's literary scene. While the article lists the winners across various categories, it provides context for authors like Will Kostakis whose recent work has been receiving acclaim and might shape future nominations. The update reflects shifting trends in Australian youth literature and recognition of diverse voices.
Greek Herald
Greek Australian Writers' Festival 2025: Will Kostakis' community moment
On 27 April 2025 the Greek Australian Writers' Festival spotlighted storytelling in the Greek diaspora; Will Kostakis attended as a prominent voice of Greek-Australian literature. The event celebrated migration heritage, identity and cultural intersection-areas deeply explored in Kostakis's work. His participation underscores his role in bridging Greek-Australian narrative and mainstream YA literature.
Star Observer
Gay Aussie author Will Kostakis shares shocking Catholic school talk story
On 26 January 2025 Will Kostakis shared in an Instagram video that during a school engagement a parent's activism nearly prevented him from speaking on LGBTQ+ topics. He described how the school initially invited him and then faced pressure from external actors, highlighting challenges queer authors face in educational outreach. The story reinforces Kostakis's public role navigating both acclaim and criticism.
Storyfest
Will Kostakis announced as Patron of Storyfest 2025
In mid-2025, Will Kostakis was named patron of Storyfest (Queensland) for 2025, signalling his growing leadership in the literary-festival sphere. The announcement emphasised his commitment to inspiring young writers and regional participation. It marks a shift from solely author to mentor and advocate within Australia's festival circuit.
FAQ
Who is Will Kostakis and why is he famous?
Will Kostakis is an Australian novelist best known for his young adult fiction that explores identity, friendship, and belonging. Born in Sydney in 1989, he began publishing at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his sharp, emotional storytelling. His novels often draw on his Greek heritage and queer identity, offering deeply personal yet universal insights. Over the years, he has become one of Australia's most respected voices in contemporary YA literature.
What inspired Will Kostakis to become a writer?
Kostakis's passion for storytelling began in his teenage years, when he won the Sydney Morning Herald Young Writer of the Year award at just sixteen. Growing up in a Greek-Australian household, he found creative inspiration in cultural intersections, family narratives, and community expectations. His early experiences with writing competitions and his love for reading shaped his career path. He has often credited his teachers and peers for encouraging his pursuit of fiction.
Which of Will Kostakis's books won major awards?
Several of Will Kostakis's works have earned critical acclaim. The First Third (2013) won the 2014 Inky Award and was shortlisted for the Prime Minister's Literary Award. His later novel We Could Be Something (2023) won the 2024 Prime Minister's Literary Award for Young Adult Fiction. These recognitions highlight his consistent excellence and his ability to connect with readers across generations.
What themes does Will Kostakis explore in his novels?
Kostakis's writing often focuses on themes of family, cultural identity, adolescence, and queerness. His stories delve into personal loss, resilience, and the search for connection in modern Australia. Through humor and heartfelt dialogue, he explores the tension between public expectations and private realities. His works also reflect the evolving landscape of multicultural and LGBTQ+ representation in young adult literature.
How has Will Kostakis contributed to Australian literature?
Will Kostakis has enriched Australian literature by bringing diverse voices to the forefront of young adult fiction. His novels bridge cultural and generational gaps, offering authenticity and empathy to readers navigating identity and belonging. He has also been active in mentoring emerging writers, participating in school programs, and advocating for inclusive representation in publishing. His impact extends beyond his books into education and literary culture.
Is Will Kostakis involved in any community or advocacy work?
Yes, Kostakis is known for his outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity in literature. He frequently speaks at schools, festivals, and writing workshops, encouraging young people to express themselves through storytelling. His openness about his own experiences has helped foster acceptance and visibility within Australia's literary community.
What challenges has Will Kostakis faced in his career?
Like many authors, Kostakis has encountered rejection and public scrutiny, particularly as a young writer entering the industry. Despite early setbacks, he remained dedicated to his craft, refining his style and embracing vulnerability in his stories. His persistence and authenticity helped him overcome early doubts and establish a lasting presence in Australian literature.
Where can readers find more information or follow Will Kostakis?
Readers can learn more about Will Kostakis and his work through his official website, social media profiles, and interviews featured in Australian literary publications. He actively engages with readers on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where he shares insights into his writing process and upcoming projects.
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