Author Kyle Lukoff has once again been named a finalist for the National Book Awards in Young People’s Literature, this time for his new novel, A World Worth Saving.

A Mythic Story with Modern Meaning

The middle-grade novel follows a Jewish transgender boy who teams up with a golem, a creature from Jewish folklore, to fight demons that feed on pain and fear, including one haunting his conversion therapy program. Lukoff said the idea came from a librarian friend who told him, “You should write a book about a golem that protects trans kids.”

While researching Jewish mythology, Lukoff found all the inspiration he needed. “I realized that everything I needed existed in Jewish lore,” he said. “That allowed the story to stay deeply Jewish.”

Building on Literary Success

This marks Lukoff’s second time as a National Book Awards finalist. His 2021 novel Too Bright to See also earned recognition for its tender portrayal of a transgender boy living in a haunted house.

Lukoff, who was born in Skokie, Illinois, and studied at Barnard College, celebrated the announcement online with a post — and a meal of Ashkenazi comfort food. He has also written Call Me Max and My Little Golden Book About Pride, both of which have sparked national conversation and, in some districts, book bans.

Representation Through Story

Through A World Worth Saving, Lukoff continues to blend Jewish storytelling with themes of courage, faith, and identity. His characters, both human and mythical, reflect a belief that hope and community can overcome pain — even when the monsters are real.

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Read the full article from the original source:
JTA – In National Book Awards finalist, Jewish trans boy and golem team up to save the world
Source: JTA, October 2025