Picture a Midwest-born storyteller who traded soccer dreams for tales that spark young imaginations—meet Amy Makechnie! This acclaimed middle-grade author weaves humor, heart, and a touch of mystery into stories that resonate with kids and adults alike. From her debut novel to her latest works, Makechnie’s unique voice shines through, drawing from her life as a teacher, coach, and mother.
The Making of Amy Makechnie
Growing up in Omaha, Nebraska, Amy Makechnie was more likely to be found on a soccer field or attempting to sail to the Mississippi on a piece of Styrofoam (spoiler: she didn’t make it) than writing novels. Her love for storytelling took root later, fueled by her Midwestern roots and a fascination with human connection. After earning an associate’s degree from Brigham Young University, Idaho, and a degree in Physical Education with an English minor from Brigham Young University, she became a high school anatomy and physiology teacher and soccer coach in New Hampshire. These roles shaped her authentic portrayals of youth, family, and resilience, which became hallmarks of her writing career.
Amy Makechnie’s Unforgettable Stories
Makechnie’s debut, The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair (2018), introduces readers to Gwyn, a feisty 10-year-old aspiring lawyer navigating a move to rural Iowa and her mother’s brain injury. Critics hailed it as a blend of Harriet the Spy and To Kill a Mockingbird, praising its rich characters and heartfelt narrative. Her second novel, Ten Thousand Tries (2021), follows Golden Maroni, a soccer-obsessed preteen grappling with his father’s ALS diagnosis. The story balances humor, grief, and hope, earning accolades for its sensitive portrayal of chronic illness. In The McNifficents (2024), Makechnie delivers a chaotic, love-filled tale narrated by a miniature schnauzer named Lord Tennyson, capturing the dynamics of a large family with wit and warmth. Her writing style—vivid, emotionally resonant, and often infused with quirky humor—draws from personal experiences, like her own flock of children and her beloved dog.
Makechnie’s stories explore themes of family, perseverance, and acceptance, often set against the backdrop of small-town life. Her ability to craft relatable characters who make mistakes and grow resonates with middle-grade readers, while her focus on real-world challenges like illness and loss offers depth for all ages.
Why Amy Makechnie Matters
Amy Makechnie’s impact lies in her ability to tackle tough topics with grace and humor, making them accessible to young readers. Her novels fill a gap in middle-grade fiction by addressing issues like chronic illness and family dynamics with authenticity and hope. As a teacher and coach, she brings a unique perspective to her work, inspiring kids to embrace their potential and navigate life’s challenges. Her growing fanbase and critical acclaim signal a lasting presence in children’s literature, proving that stories rooted in personal truth can touch universal hearts.
- Birthplace: Omaha, Nebraska
- Key Works: The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair, Ten Thousand Tries, The McNifficents
- Fun Fact: She teaches anatomy and physiology and once coached soccer!
Snag The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair or Ten Thousand Tries and dive into Amy Makechnie’s heartwarming world of middle-grade magic!