Proviso Press Release

HILLSIDE, IL – Proviso West High School English teacher Amanda Saulsberry is not only shaping young minds in the classroom but also captivating readers worldwide under her pen name, Amanda Joy. As an accomplished author and bookstagrammer, Saulsberry has captivated audiences with her fantasy novels inspired by North African culture.

Growing up in a family of avid readers, Saulsberry was first introduced to fantasy literature through The Chronicles of Narnia, sparking a lifelong passion for storytelling. Her brother later introduced her to The Wheel of Time series, further fueling her desire to create her own fictional worlds.

Saulsberry pursued her love of literature by earning a degree in English and Psychology from the University of Missouri, followed by a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Writing for Children from The New School. Her debut novel, A River of Royal Blood (2019), and its sequel, A Queen of Gilded Horns (2021), have been widely praised for their richly imagined worlds and complex characters.

“I always find myself writing about family and sibling relationships because it’s a big part of my life,” said Saulsberry. “Resilience is also a key theme in my work—teenage readers are drawn to characters who show vulnerability but ultimately persist in achieving their goals.”

Beyond her literary success, Saulsberry finds inspiration in her students, often incorporating discussions of writing and storytelling into her classroom. “My students inspire me every day,” she said. “I talk to them about the writing process, the importance of revision, and embracing mistakes. Even if they don’t love English class, they can connect with storytelling on a personal level.”

Saulsberry is currently working on an upcoming novel inspired by her family history, partially set in Louisiana, as well as a collaborative project with fellow writers from her graduate studies. She remains committed to promoting diversity in fantasy literature, emphasizing the need for equal representation and opportunities for authors of all backgrounds.

Saulsberry continues to nurture young writers at Proviso West while captivating readers beyond the classroom. Her passion for storytelling and commitment to her students highlight her dedication to inspiring the next generation of literary voices.

About Proviso Township High School District 209

Proviso Township High School District 209 is committed to empowering every student to achieve academic and personal success by fostering strong connections between school, home, and the community.

For more information about this initiative and other district programs, please visit Proviso Township High Schools.