Picture a storyteller who spins tales so gripping you forget to blink—meet April Henry! Born in Portland, Oregon, this New York Times bestselling author has been weaving mysteries and thrillers since her childhood, captivating readers with her knack for suspense. From her early days as a precocious writer to crafting over 20 novels, Henry’s stories, especially for young adults, are packed with twists that keep you guessing.
With hits like Girl, Stolen and The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die, she’s earned a loyal following and even had her work optioned for film. Let’s dive into the world of April Henry, where every page hums with danger and heart.
The Making of April Henry
Born on April 14, 1959, in Portland, Oregon, April Henry grew up in Medford, where her father, Hank Henry, was a TV newscaster, and her mother, Nora Henry, was a florist. Her love for storytelling sparked early—when she was just 12, she sent a quirky story about a peanut butter-loving frog to Roald Dahl. To her delight, Dahl shared it with an editor, and it was published in an international children’s magazine! Though unpaid, this moment lit a spark. After studying business at Oregon State University and working corporate jobs, Henry returned to writing in her 30s, juggling a day job and motherhood to chase her dream.
April Henry’s Unforgettable Stories
April Henry’s novels are masterclasses in suspense, blending heart-pounding plots with relatable characters. Her young adult thrillers, in particular, shine for their fast pace and emotional depth. Take Girl, Stolen (2010), a gripping tale of a blind teenager accidentally kidnapped during a car theft. Inspired by a real-life incident, it became an ALA Best Book for Young Adults and was optioned for film. Then there’s The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die (2013), where an amnesiac teen must unravel her identity to survive—think Bourne Identity for teens.
Henry’s Point Last Seen series, starting with The Body in the Woods (2014), follows teen volunteers in Portland’s Search and Rescue team as they stumble into murder mysteries. Her style is cinematic, with short chapters and alternating perspectives that hook readers. Themes of resilience, justice, and survival run deep, often inspired by real events like the Eagle Creek fire in Playing with Fire (2021). She’s also co-authored adult mysteries like the Triple Threat series with Lis Wiehl, proving her versatility.
Her books don’t just entertain—they resonate. Henry’s knack for crafting flawed, courageous heroines makes her stories universally appealing, earning her Edgar and Anthony Award nominations and spots on bestseller lists.
Why April Henry Matters
April Henry’s impact on the mystery and thriller genre is undeniable. Her ability to weave real-world issues—kidnapping, survival, trauma—into accessible, thrilling narratives has made her a favorite among teens and adults alike. Her Portland roots shine through in her settings, grounding her stories in vivid, relatable locales. By spotlighting strong female protagonists, she empowers young readers to face their fears. With over 20 novels translated into eight languages and awards in a dozen states, Henry’s legacy is one of storytelling that thrills and inspires.
Her journey from a small-town dreamer to a full-time author by 2008 is a testament to perseverance, encouraging aspiring writers to keep going despite rejections. As she continues to pen new works, like Stay Dead (2024), her influence only grows.
About April Henry
- Born: April 14, 1959, in Portland, Oregon
- Key Works: Girl, Stolen, The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die, The Body in the Woods
- Awards: Edgar Award finalist, Anthony Award winner, Oregon Book Award finalist
- Fun Fact: She’s trained in martial arts, including Kung Fu!
Snag Girl, Stolen and dive into April Henry’s pulse-pounding world of mystery and courage!