Julian R. Vaca is a first generation Mexican American and first generation college graduate. He has been a creative writer for over a decade. His debut young adult novel, The Memory Index, publishes August 9, 2022. The title is already a Nashville Scene Summer 2022 Reading Pick. Julian recently spoke at the American Library Association’s Annual Conference in D.C., one of the nation’s largest gatherings of librarians. He is a member of the SCBWI and is a PEN/Faulkner Writers in School author. He is Franklin Road Academy's first ever Writer in Residence (2022/23 school year).

Julian is also a staff writer and principal actor on PBS’s “Reconnecting Roots,” a nationally broadcast show that drew in millions of viewers over its first two seasons. For acting, Julian is repped by Atlanta- and Nashville-based talent agency The Avenue.

His second book, The Recall Paradox, publishes April 11, 2023. Julian lives in Nashville with his family.

Praise for THE MEMORY INDEX:

“Remember this name: Julian Vaca. The Memory Index is a brilliant debut. A novel concept, fascinating characters, and a stirring plot add up to an unforgettable story that promises to be just the first of many by a wildly talented author.”

—Andrew Maraniss, New York Times bestselling author

“Vaca’s debut is a thrilling and often unsettling examination of the elusive nature of memory and truth. The Memory Index will leave you breathlessly turning pages until its satisfying conclusion.”

—Jonathan Evison, New York Times bestselling author of Small World

“The Memory Index is a cross between John Green, Neal Stephenson, and Philip K. Dick. Vaca has developed his terrifying premise into a suspenseful tale filled with a visceral sense of nostalgia—plus plenty of ’80s references. Readers will be ready for more before they even finish the epilogue.”

—Elizabeth Foscue, author of Pest

Twitter: @JulianRVaca