Picture a storyteller who weaves psychological suspense with literary finesse, crafting tales that linger like a haunting melody—meet Alice LaPlante! An award-winning author and Stanford educator, LaPlante burst onto the literary scene with her debut novel, Turn of Mind, a gripping thriller that nabbed the prestigious Wellcome Trust Book Prize. With a knack for blending Alzheimer’s-driven narratives and corporate tech consulting, she’s a literary chameleon whose stories captivate and educate.
From her Northern California base, LaPlante balances teaching creative writing, penning bestselling novels, and consulting for Silicon Valley giants like Google and Cisco. Her work doesn’t just entertain—it challenges readers to explore the fragility of memory and the complexity of human relationships. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable writer.
The Making of Alice LaPlante
Born and raised in Chicago, Alice LaPlante’s journey to literary stardom began with a degree in English Literature from Stanford University. Initially a journalist, she wrote for tech giants like IBM and Microsoft, honing a sharp, precise style that later infused her fiction. Her pivot to creative writing came with a Wallace Stegner Fellowship at Stanford, a turning point that fueled her confidence to publish stories and teach. This blend of corporate savvy and artistic passion shaped her unique voice, merging analytical rigor with emotional depth.
LaPlante’s early career wasn’t without hurdles. A failed novel attempt taught her the importance of emotional engagement, a lesson that propelled her to success with Turn of Mind. Now living in Mallorca, Spain, she continues to bridge worlds—literature and tech, fiction and nonfiction—making her a standout figure in contemporary writing.
Alice LaPlante’s Unforgettable Stories
LaPlante’s debut, Turn of Mind (2011), is a masterclass in psychological suspense. Narrated by Dr. Jennifer White, a retired surgeon with Alzheimer’s suspected of murdering her friend, the novel’s fragmented narrative mirrors the protagonist’s unraveling mind. Praised for its “technically daring” approach, it won the Wellcome Trust Book Prize and hit the New York Times bestseller list, cementing LaPlante’s reputation.
Her follow-up, A Circle of Wives (2014), dives into marital deception, unraveling the secrets of a doctor with three wives. Half Moon Bay (2018) explores grief and suspense through a mother’s loss, while Coming of Age at the End of Days (2015) tackles a teen’s obsession with a doomsday cult. LaPlante’s style—lyrical yet precise—blends family drama with thrilling twists, earning comparisons to Lisa Genova’s Still Alice. Her nonfiction, like Method and Madness: The Making of a Story (2009), is a beloved guide for aspiring writers, lauded as a “writing course in a book.”
Whether crafting novels or textbooks, LaPlante’s work probes the human psyche, often inspired by personal experiences, like her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s. Her ability to humanize complex conditions while spinning page-turners sets her apart in literary and thriller circles.
Why Alice LaPlante Matters
Alice LaPlante’s impact transcends her books. As a Stanford and San Francisco State University educator, she’s shaped countless writers, sharing insights from her dual career in tech and literature. Her novels, especially Turn of Mind, have sparked conversations about Alzheimer’s, highlighting its emotional and societal toll. By portraying dementia with authenticity, she’s brought visibility to a disease often misunderstood, earning praise for illuminating “the heart and soul of an illness.”
In tech, her content marketing work for Silicon Valley firms showcases her versatility, proving storytelling thrives in any arena. LaPlante’s legacy lies in her ability to connect—whether through a student’s draft, a novel’s twist, or a corporate narrative—making her a vital voice in modern literature.
- Born: Chicago, Illinois
- Key Works: Turn of Mind, A Circle of Wives, Half Moon Bay, Method and Madness
- Awards: Wellcome Trust Book Prize (2011), Wallace Stegner Fellowship
- Current Home: Mallorca, Spain
Snag Turn of Mind and dive into Alice LaPlante’s thrilling, thought-provoking world—your mind will thank you!