Tyler McMahon

Tyler McMahon is an Associate Professor of English in the Department of English and Applied Linguistics at Hawaii Pacific University, College of Liberal Arts. He teaches courses such as Research, Argument and Writing (WRI 1200), Fiction Writing Workshop (WRI 3330), and Introduction to Literature (ENG 2000). He also serves as advisor for the student literary magazine Wanderlust and editor of the Hawaii Pacific Review.

• M.F.A. in Creative Writing, Boise State University, 2007
• B.A. in English, University of Virginia, 1998

His research and creative interests center on creative writing, fiction, contemporary American literature, and literary editing. He explores themes of identity, moral ambiguity, cultural experience, and emotional realism through narrative forms. His work often reflects personal and societal tensions, drawing from American life and cross-cultural experiences.

The 13 available publications, all short fiction and essays from 2005–2011, demonstrate a strong engagement with literary journals and contemporary fiction. These works span genres from psychological realism to transgressive narratives, frequently exploring existential themes, human vulnerability, and place-based storytelling, particularly in American and Pacific contexts.

His notable recognition includes:

• 2015 Maria Thomas Fiction Award for Kilometer 99

He has authored two novels—Kilometer 99 (2014) and How the Mistakes Were Made (2011)—and edited anthologies on misadventures in fishing and surfing. Though no formal advising list is provided, his role as advisor to Wanderlust indicates active mentorship. There is no mention of external grants or research funding in the provided text.

He is involved with literary initiatives at HPU, particularly through his editorial leadership of the Hawaii Pacific Review and guidance of the student publication Wanderlust, fostering emerging writers and creative expression within the university community.