Moon Dust in My Hairnet

JR Creaden (they/them) is an author and freelance editor who was raised in the Low Country and Appalachian piedmonts and dreams of living somewhere cold. As soon as they could read, they knew they wanted to be an author. They penned poetry, songs, and essays, and read everything within reach, preferring ghost stories and fantasy until discovering science fiction. Though fascinated by space and its unlimited possibilities, they never saw people like themselves in books. Now JR writes speculative fiction for children and adults to remind dreamers like themselves–who can’t math, don’t fight, and wouldn’t dare fly rocketships–that they have an important place in humanity’s story wherever it lands, just the way they are.

“A poignant, tender sci-fi story with humanity at heart, about overcoming grief and finding hope beyond a ravaged future on Earth.”

—Xiran Jay Zhao, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Iron Widow

“A powerful exploration of survivor’s guilt and trauma… Creaden is an exciting new voice in science fiction!”

—Publishers Weekly

“The very definition of hopepunk, Moon Dust is the utopian dream of fighting the good fight with kindness, compassion, and community. Inclusive and diverse characters, including the AuDHD-coded Lane, battle corporate evils with hope for positive change. Written with breathtaking, genre-defying prose, this debut novel is the perfect beginning for new author, JR Creaden. Their take on the possibilities of utopia, and its opposition, brings to light many of the harmful issues of today’s society. Idealistic in all the best ways, this science-fiction story is told with memorable characters whose emotions flow from the page. Moon Dust in My Hairnet should be devoured in one sitting, completely and utterly unputdownable.”

—A.J. Super, author of the Seven Stars Saga

“This book helps us dream of a better world, with valuable lessons on grief and community care. Lovable main characters break the mold in all of their neurodiverse, queer, and polyamorous glory.”

—Karen Bao, author of Pangu’s Shadow and Dove Arising

“Moon Dust in My Hairnet brings a charming, passionate voice to its tale of the world-changing power of innocence and imagination. Beautiful and full of heart!”

—Sarah Porter, author of Never-Contented Things