Djenar Maesa Ayu started her writings on many national newspapers. Her first book "Mereka Bilang Saya Monyet!" has been reprinted more than 8 times and shortlisted on Khatulistiwa Literary Award 2003.Her short story “Waktu Nayla” awarded the best Short Story by Kompas in 2003, while “Menyusu Ayah” become The Best Short Story by Jurnal Perempuan and translated to English by Richard Oh with title “Suckling Father”.Her second book "Jangan Main-main (dengan Kelaminmu)" was launch February 2005 and also received great success. The amazing part is this book reprinted two days after the launching.