Jessica George is a British author born and raised in London to Ghanaian parents. She studied English Literature at the University of Sheffield and has worked in various roles within the literary industry, including at a literary agency, a theatre, and a publishing house.

George's path to publication was marked by persistence and resilience. Over eight years, she wrote and submitted five books to publishers, all of which were rejected. It was her sixth novel, Maame, finally became her breakthrough. Maame, a coming-of-age story about a 25-year-old woman named Maddie, was highly anticipated and sold in an eight-publisher auction. The novel has received widespread critical acclaim and endorsements from notable authors like Celeste Ng and Bonnie Garmus.

Maame draws heavily from George's personal experiences, particularly her life as the daughter of Ghanaian immigrants living in London. The novel addresses themes such as family duty, racism, and the challenges of early adulthood. Maddie, the protagonist, navigates these complexities while caring for her seriously ill father and striving for personal independence.

George's writing is noted for its conversational, colloquial tone, which she initially thought might be a barrier to success. However, this unique voice has resonated with readers and critics alike, contributing to the novel's success.