Short bio
Kirby Larson is the acclaimed author of the 2007 Newbery Honor Book, Hattie Big Sky. Kirby’s distinctions include Bank Street College Best Books, American Booksellers Association Best Books, ALA Notables, New York Public Library Best Book, Teachers’ Choice Award, Junior Library Guild selections and an Edgar Award nomination. Her books have garnered 37 State Young Readers Choice Awards. Kirby is a popular visiting author at schools and conferences around the country.
Long bio
Kirby Larson is the acclaimed author of the 2007 Newbery Honor Book, Hattie Big Sky, inspired by her great-grandmother’s homesteading experience in eastern Montana. Reader response inspired Kirby to pursue her passion for historical fiction, leading to a sequel, Hattie Ever After; and the Dogs of World War II series: Duke, Dash, Liberty, and Code Word Courage. Her love for history and mystery are combined in Audacity Jones to the Rescue, and Audacity Jones Steals the Show. Kirby’s distinctions include Bank Street College Best Books, American Booksellers Association Best Books, ALA Notables, New York Public Library Best Book, Teachers’ Choice Award, Junior Library Guild selections and an Edgar Award nomination. Her books have garnered 37 State Young Readers Choice Awards.
A collaboration with good friend Mary Nethery has produced two award-winning nonfiction picture books: Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship and Survival and Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine and a Miracle.
Kirby has presented at more than 200 schools and conferences in over thirty states and as far away as Qatar, Lebanon and Guam. Her passport is up to date and she’s ready for her next adventure!
Kirby lives in Washington state with husband, Neil. When not reading or writing, Kirby can be found beach combing or bird watching with her naughty dog, Raleigh.