Kirby Larson
Kirby Larson went from history-phobe to history fanatic while writing the 2007 Newbery Honor Book, HATTIE BIG SKY. Her passion for historical fiction is reflected in titles such as THE FENCES BETWEEN US, THE FRIENDSHIP DOLL, as well as the sequel to HATTIE BIG SKY, HATTIE EVER AFTER, and her two latest titles, DUKE--which was nominated for 5 state Young Reader Choice awards as well as being a finalist for the Washington State Book Award-- and DASH--which has garnered two starred reviews, a NAPPA Gold Award and a Capitol Choices nomination. She will have two new books out in 2016 -- watch for them!
In 2006, Kirby began a collaboration with her good friend Mary Nethery resulting in 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 lives in Kenmore, Washington with her husband, Neil, and Winston the Wonder Dog. When she’s not reading or writing Kirby enjoys beach combing, bird watching, and traveling. She owns a tiara and is not afraid to use it.
“no matter how big his smile or how loud his laugh, you could hear the hurt underneath.”
“Hon, when someone's a true friend, there's no need to miss 'em." She patted her chest. "'Cause they're always right here.”
“The wren and the nightingale sound nothing alike, but think how dull the world would be without the songs of both birds.—Miss Kanagawa”
“Our actions make the fragrance of our lives...Would you smell of plums? Or Vinegar?”
“Postscript: H - Bring warm clothes and a cat”
“Sir if I was your daughter I would wait until this train started again and throw myself in front of it! ”
“I will have to rely on that painful teacher, experience.”
“The worst thing of all is standing by when folks are doing something wrong.”
“Hattie.' Grace patted my arm. 'My cows sing better than you do.”