Picture a Texas-born storyteller who unearths the wild secrets of plants and spins tales of fearless women—meet Amy Stewart! With a knack for blending botany and gripping narratives, Stewart has carved a unique niche in contemporary literature. From her bestselling nonfiction exploring nature’s quirks to her thrilling historical novels, she captivates readers with wit and wonder.
Amy Stewart’s journey from a curious gardener to a New York Times bestselling author is as vibrant as the worlds she creates. Her passion for the natural world and strong female characters shines through, making her a beloved voice across genres. Ready to dig into her story?
The Making of Amy Stewart
Born in Arlington, Texas, Amy Stewart grew up surrounded by creativity—her father, Vic Stewart, was a musician, and her mother, Dee, thrived in public relations. This artistic blend shaped her eclectic path. After earning a B.A. in anthropology and a master’s in community and regional planning from the University of Texas at Austin, Stewart’s love for gardening took root. She co-founded the popular blog Garden Rant, laying the groundwork for her literary career. Her early days in Eureka, California, where she tended a poison plant garden (yes, really!), sparked her fascination with nature’s darker side.
Amy Stewart’s Unforgettable Stories
Stewart’s nonfiction books are a delightful mix of science, history, and storytelling. The Drunken Botanist (2013) dives into the plants behind your favorite cocktails, earning acclaim for its witty prose and meticulous research. Wicked Plants (2009) uncovers the deadly side of botany, from poisonous weeds to killer vines, while Flower Confidential (2007) explores the global flower trade’s hidden stories. These works, all New York Times bestsellers, showcase Stewart’s ability to make science accessible and endlessly entertaining.
In 2015, Stewart ventured into historical fiction with the Kopp Sisters series, starting with Girl Waits with Gun. Inspired by the true story of Constance Kopp, one of America’s first female deputy sheriffs, the series follows the feisty Kopp sisters through early 20th-century New Jersey. With seven novels, including Lady Cop Makes Trouble (2016) and Miss Kopp Investigates (2021), the series blends meticulous historical detail with feminist themes, earning praise for its spirited characters and immersive plots.
Her latest work, The Tree Collectors (2024), returns to nonfiction, celebrating arborists who preserve the world’s trees. Stewart’s style—vivid, curious, and laced with humor—bridges genres, making complex topics feel like page-turning adventures.
Why Amy Stewart Matters
Amy Stewart’s impact lies in her ability to connect readers with the natural world and forgotten histories. Her nonfiction has inspired countless gardeners, bartenders, and curious minds to see plants in a new light, while her Kopp Sisters series resurrects unsung heroines, resonating with readers seeking stories of resilience and defiance. With over a million books sold and translations in 18 languages, Stewart’s global reach is undeniable. Her awards, including a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship and the American Horticulture Society’s Book Award, cement her influence.
Beyond writing, Stewart’s work as an artist and co-owner of Eureka Books, a Victorian-era bookstore, reflects her commitment to creativity and community. Her Substack newsletter and online classes further engage fans, offering a glimpse into her boundless curiosity.
- Born: Arlington, Texas
- Key Works: The Drunken Botanist, Wicked Plants, Girl Waits with Gun, The Tree Collectors
- Awards: National Endowment for the Arts fellowship, American Horticulture Society Book Award
- Fun Fact: Her poison plant garden was named one of the world’s strangest by Popular Mechanics!
Snag The Drunken Botanist or Girl Waits with Gun and dive into Amy Stewart’s enchanting blend of nature and adventure!