Picture an English lawyer turned storyteller who swapped courtrooms for the vibrant world of novels—meet Alex George! Now a celebrated author in the American Midwest, George crafts heartfelt tales of identity and belonging, with bestsellers like A Good American and The Paris Hours capturing readers’ hearts. His journey from London to Missouri, sprinkled with jazz and bookshop dreams, is as captivating as his prose.
Beyond writing, George is a literary champion, founding the Unbound Book Festival and running Skylark Bookshop. His stories, rich with human connection, invite us to explore what it means to find home. Ready to dive into his world?
The Making of Alex George
Born in London, England, Alex George studied law at Oxford University, embarking on a successful career as a corporate lawyer in London and Paris. But the call of storytelling was stronger. In the 1990s, frustrated by lackluster novels, he took a challenge to write better, penning his first book in the early mornings before work. In 2003, George moved to Columbia, Missouri, with his family, re-qualifying as a U.S. attorney while nurturing his writing. This transatlantic leap shaped his unique perspective on identity and place.
Alex George’s Unforgettable Stories
George’s novels blend historical depth with emotional resonance, often exploring the immigrant experience and human connection. His breakthrough, A Good American (2012), follows a German family’s journey to Missouri, weaving humor and tragedy across generations. It became a national bestseller, earning accolades like a Library Journal Best Book of the Year. Setting Free the Kites (2017) captures 1970s Maine through a poignant tale of friendship, winning the Missouri Prize for Fiction.
His latest, The Paris Hours (2020), is a dazzling mosaic set in 1927 Paris, intertwining the lives of a housemaid, a painter, a puppeteer, and a journalist. Critics praise its lyrical prose and vivid characters, comparing it to All the Light We Cannot See. George’s style—elegant, character-driven, and steeped in place—makes each book a journey of discovery.
Earlier works like Love You Madly (2002) and Working It Out (1999) showcase his versatility, blending wit with emotional depth. Whether in Missouri or Paris, George’s stories celebrate the messy, beautiful search for belonging.
Why Alex George Matters
Alex George’s impact extends beyond his novels. As founder of the Unbound Book Festival, he’s brought literary giants like Salman Rushdie and Zadie Smith to Missouri, fostering a vibrant book culture. His Skylark Bookshop, a Southern Living “Best Bookstore,” is a community hub, championing indie bookselling. George’s work resonates with readers seeking stories of resilience and identity, offering a fresh lens on the American experience through an immigrant’s eyes.
His ability to weave history, humor, and heart has earned him a devoted following. By celebrating the ordinary lives behind extraordinary moments, George reminds us that everyone’s story matters.
- Born: 1970, London, England
- Key Works: A Good American, Setting Free the Kites, The Paris Hours
- Awards: Missouri Prize for Fiction (2018), Library Journal Best Book of the Year (2012)
- Hobbies: Playing saxophone, cooking complex meals
About Alex George
Snag The Paris Hours and dive into Alex George’s lyrical world of history and heart!