Emma McLaughlin

Emma McLaughlin (born February 7, 1974 in Elmira, New York) is an American novelist best known for co-creating The Nanny Diaries with Nicola Kraus. She graduated from New York University's Gallatin School before working as a nanny in New York City, a formative experience that inspired the satirical and observational lens featured in her debut novel—The Nanny Diaries became a New York Times #1 bestseller in 2002 and was later adapted into a film +15+15Goodreads+15. Since then, McLaughlin and Kraus have co-authored novels such as Citizen Girl, Dedication, The Real Real, Nanny Returns, and Over You, often addressing themes of class, identity, and modern womanhood Teen Vogue+7+7+7.

As an author, McLaughlin brings humor and sharp social commentary to her work. Her books often highlight what she and Kraus describe as their obsession with crafting satisfying stories that resonate with contemporary readers—balancing the comedic with emotional depth Inspiring Quotes+12Goodreads+12+12. In Over You, their young‑adult title, they explore heartbreak and resilience through characters who help others heal—turning personal insight into relatable advice for younger audiences Teen Vogue+1+1.

McLaughlin’s wit and candid observations are evident in many of her quotes. She’s remarked with self-aware humor: “If you’re going to do something, darling, then do it all the way.” GoodreadsInspiring Quotes On heartbreak: “I’ve learned that hurting you feels infinitely worse than being hurt myself.” quotes.guide+3Goodreads+3Inspiring Quotes+3 And on romantic comedy tropes: “We ‘chicks’ have munched our popcorn while romantic comedies became just comedies…”—a reflection on shifting expectations for female characters in mainstream entertainment +3BrainyQuote+3Inspiring Quotes+3.

Let me know if you'd like deeper quotes from her YA novels or more insight into her writing collaboration with Nicola Kraus!