Maria is a freelance writer, essayist and author of young adult novels. Her books include "Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress" (selected by the American Library Association as one of the Best Books for Young Adults 2009, and winner of the 2009 Maine Literary Award for Children's Literature from the Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance as well as a Lupine Honor Award from the Maine Library Association); "Jersey Tomatoes Are the Best"; and "Out of Nowhere."
Maria lives with her family in Brunswick, Maine, where she is currently at work on a new novel.
News and Reviews
"Out of Nowhere" is part of the Portland, Maine city-wide read beginning in 2013. The "I'm Your Neighbor" read features books set in Maine's new arrival communities.
Young Adult Mag, an online "magazine" spotlighting YA Lit, features "Out of Nowhere" in their June issue. Visit their website to read the article.
Want to know what readers are saying about "Out of Nowhere?" Visit Goodreads for the latest reader reviews.
School Library Journal gives "Out of Nowhere" a starred review. Click here to read.
An interview with Maria, by photojournalist, Greta Rybus, is now live on the web. "Who I Met" is a fascinating, beautifully photographed blog featuring Mainers from throughout the Pine Tree State. Click here to see/read Greta's interview with Maria, as well as her wonderful portraits of other Mainers.
"Out of Nowhere" featured! The Lewiston Sun Journal has a nice feature story about the novel. To read it, click here.
Calling all independent booksellers! "Out of Nowhere" has been selected by Random House as their sales representatives Spring Pick! Stay tuned for special offers, displays, and news from the editor.
Coming to your school, this year: Scholastic Books will be bringing "Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress" to schools across the country through its popular book fairs and monthly book-order clubs.
Got Skype? Is your school hosting a Scholastic Book Fair this year? Maria is "virtually visiting" schools during book fair week for a free, ten minute author chat with students via Skype. See the "Schools" page for details!
Jersey Tomatoes Are the Best reviews:
Los Angeles Times: "Padian delivers, all rolled up into one, youth versions of the Natalie Portman film, Black Swan (without the creepy sexual riffs) and Andre Agassi's bestselling memoir, Open, which, like this book, I recommend to any serious-minded young athlete."
Publishers Weekly: "With complex characters, a wrenchingly realistic portrayal of anorexia, and a friendship that is the true heart of the story, Padian offers a well-wrought tale that makes it crystal clear that New Jersey has much more to offer than a certain reality show might suggest."
Kirkus Reviews: "The worlds of ballet and tennis provide an intriguing background for this story about two gifted best friends. ... compelling .... the interesting protagonists, details from both worlds and the well-drawn, flawed adult characters make this a worthwhile read."
Praise for Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress
"[A] hilarious coming-of-age story."
Parade Magazine
"Forceful and heartwarming, this coming-of-age story examines what happens when old friends are outgrown and loved ones are no longer there to lean on."
Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
" ... poignant and honest. ... Padian's fully-developed characters and ear for teenage voices make this a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone in a crowd."
School Library Journal
“[Brett is] a character with strength and determination, and her drive and competitive spirit make her a believable heroine on the soccer field. … The book offers a vivid depiction of life in a small coastal Maine town.”
The Bulletin
“This young-adult/teen novel is a smart, hilariously told coming-of-age story. If you’ve forgotten what being a fourteen-year-old is like, you’ll remember. If you’re not yet fourteen, here’s looking at you, girl!”
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
"Brett is an extremely likeable teen dealing with a crazy middle school year. ... Debut author Padian has something for everyone in this book."
Teens Read Too, Gold Star Review
" ... a really great 'feel good' book that you also need a box of Kleenex nearby when you read."
Dr. Ruth Clark, "Madchatter"
