Books by Matthew Zender
Real Family
A Journey of 5 Friends Discovering Their Identities and the True Meaning of Family
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Real Family: Nick's Search for Purpose
A Young Man's Journey to Find His Purpose in Life and Love
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Real Family: Eileen's Search for Humility
She Crossed an Ocean to Escape the Girl She Used to Be
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Muñeca (moo – nyecka)
Five Lives. One Doll. An Unforgettable Legacy of Love Spanning Generations.
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August 2026
Writing Workshop for Safe Space NOVA
Matthew is providing a Creative Writing Workshop for Safe Space NOVA on October 17th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Join us for an engaging session on crafting authentic characters, narrative structure, and empowering youth voices through creative storytelling!
Learn More at Safe Space NOVA →
August 2026
Now Available: Real Family: Eileen's Search for Humility!
I’m thrilled to announce that Real Family: Eileen’s Search for Humility is officially available! Follow Eileen Spivey’s powerful journey from Virginia to the rugged peaks of the Himalayas as she faces a profound psychological reckoning and learns what it truly means to build a real family.
Get it on Amazon →
July 2026
Now Available at Barnes & Noble!
I’m thrilled to announce that Real Family is officially available at Barnes & Noble. Thank you to everyone for your incredible support.
Get it at B&N →
July 2026
Book Club Visits Available!
I am now officially taking bookings for virtual Q&A sessions with your book club via Zoom and Google Meet. Check out the new page to download the discussion guide and marketing materials.
Book Me Now →About the Author
Born in Michigan and raised in Florida, Matthew Robert Zender draws on a vibrant background to infuse his characters with striking authenticity and emotional depth. His marriage to his husband—a native of Bogotá, Colombia—further inspires his work, informing its themes of acceptance, cultural intersection, and the beauty of varied perspectives.
Passionate about the intricate art of storytelling, Matthew is committed to amplifying diverse voices in contemporary fiction. His debut novel, Real Family, is a resonant coming-of-age story that explores profound personal transformation, the complex nature of human relationships, and the unexpected places we discover our true kin.