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NYT Bestseling auhor Ellen Hopkins discussed her book "Sync" on Friday, Sept. 27. The event took place at the Spanish Steps in the new Academic Building. Photos by Chase Samole.

New York Times Best Selling author Ellen Hopkins visited the Upper School Campus on Friday, Sept. 27, at 10 a.m. to discuss her new book, “Sync.” The event, which inaugurated the Caporal Family Spanish Steps in the new Academic Building, gathered students grades 9-12 from the book club and English classes.

Hopkins, who was adopted at birth, has become one of the most banned authors in the U.S. for her raw portrayal of sensitive topics such as drug addiction, childhood sex trafficking, and suicide. Her novels, written entirely in free verse, resonate with readers due to their focus on real-world issues. Although her novels are fiction, all of the characters in them are inspired by real people who have real stories, which contribute to each novel’s genuineness.

“When I write books for you guys, I write honestly—I don’t sugarcoat what I’m writing about. I write where you guys are living, I write the good stuff there and the bad stuff there, and I write it real,” Hopkins said during the event.

Her latest novel “Sync” tells the story of twins separated by the foster care system, with one ending up in the juvenile justice system and the other on the streets of Long Beach, California. It conveys the protagonists’ battle out of those oppressive situations and journeys back to each other.

Hopkins was inspired to write about this topic because of her work experience with many foster children—either aged out or in the juvenile justice system. Hopkins wants readers to understand how the system works in the U.S., as well as spread awareness about the unfortunate circumstances many individuals are caught up in due to the foster care system.

For many, Hopkins’ novels have had a profound impact on their lives.

“As a parent who read ‘Crank’ in the mid-2000s and immediately became a fan, I’ve seen firsthand how her work serves as both a wakeup call and a beacon of hope—helping young people navigate their struggles and discover their own strength,” Information Specialist Magda Morice said.

Despite her long-term success in writing hard-hitting fiction, Hopkins expressed a desire to explore a new genre in the future: horror. Inspired by renowned author Stephen King’s “The Shining” and “It,” Hopkins aims to deep dive into the psychological depths of fear, crafting stories that tap into the darker aspects of human nature.

Hopkins was an avid reader from a young age who published her first poem at the age of 9 and later studied journalism at Crafton Hills College and UCSB. She continues to inspire readers to spread awareness about life’s challenges, hoping her work encourages empathy and understanding while shedding light on issues often overlooked.