Charming as a Verb

Ben Philippe is a Haitian Canadian author and screenwriter. Born in Haiti and raised in Canada, Philippe brings his autobiographical experiences to the fictional Charming as a Verb.

Philippe was raised in Montreal, where protagonist Henri Haltiwanger wants to attend McGill University. Philippe attended Columbia University for his undergraduate education, the school Henri’s father thinks will be perfect for Henri. Thus, Philippe’s lived experiences as Haitian Canadian in both Montreal and at Columbia University provide inherent perspective on settings, conflicts, and given circumstances in Charming as a Verb.

Philippe’s debut novel, The Field Guide to the North American Teenager, was awarded the ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults award in 2020 as well as the William C. Morris Award. His debut novel was quickly followed by the 2020 publication of Charming as a Verb, which earned great reviews for its witty use of dialogue and realistic depiction of contemporary teenage life. In 2021, Philippe published the memoir Sure, I’ll Be Your Black Friend. Philippe is also a screenwriter for the popular Hulu series Only Murders in the Building.