Lara Love Hardin

Lara Love Hardin, an influential figure in the literary world, has carved a niche as a literary agent, author, and advocate for prison reform. As president of True Literary, she channels her passion for transformative storytelling, a pursuit enriched by her own compelling life experiences. With a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing, Hardin has become a distinguished voice in contemporary literature, not only through her own works but also as a collaborative writer. Her advocacy extends beyond the page, co-founding The Gemma Project, which offers compassionate, gender-responsive support to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women. Among Hardin's acclaimed works is her memoir, "The Many Lives of Mama Love," a 2024 Oprah Book Club selection and a New York Times bestseller that resonates with readers through its poignant narrative and introspective depth. Her collaboration with Anthony Ray Hinton on "The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row" was met with widespread acclaim, earning a spot as a 2018 Oprah Book Club pick. This powerful account of Hinton's wrongful conviction and ultimate redemption on Alabama’s death row underscores Hardin’s commitment to illuminating social justice issues. Her contributions as a five-time New York Times bestselling collaborative writer include the #1 bestseller "Designing Your Life," further cementing her reputation for impactful storytelling. Hardin’s writing is characterized by its eloquent style and profound exploration of human resilience, justice, and redemption. Her work not only captivates readers with its narrative prowess but also serves as a catalyst for social change, affirming the highest values of the human spirit. Recognized with a Christopher Award and nominations for prestigious accolades like the NAACP Image Award and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, Lara Love Hardin continues to be a seminal voice in literature, advocating for those who are often voiceless. Residing in La Selva Beach, California, she remains dedicated to her craft and her cause.