Picture a storyteller who spun the lives of queens and princesses into captivating tales for young readers—meet Carolyn Meyer! This American author has enchanted audiences with her historical fiction, particularly the Young Royals series, bringing figures like Anastasia Romanov and Mary Tudor to life with vivid detail and emotional depth. With over 50 books to her name, Meyer’s versatile pen has also explored non-fiction, from Amish culture to photography pioneers, earning her a cherished spot in young adult literature.
Born in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, Meyer’s journey from a small-town girl to a celebrated author is as inspiring as her novels. Her knack for weaving history with heart has made her a favorite among teens and educators alike, with ten of her books honored as Best Books for Young Adults by the American Library Association.
The Making of Carolyn Meyer
Born on June 8, 1935, Carolyn Meyer grew up as an only child in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, where her love for stories bloomed early. At eight, she penned her first (unfinished) novel, Humpy the Caterpillar and Gladys the Snail: A True Life Romance, a whimsical hint of her future creativity. After graduating from Bucknell University in 1957, Meyer’s path to writing took shape through marriage, motherhood, and a move to New Mexico, where she embraced her craft. Her early works, like Miss Patch’s Learn-to-Sew Book in 1969, showcased her ability to connect with young readers, setting the stage for her historical fiction career.
Influenced by her fascination with history and personal experiences, Meyer found her niche in young adult fiction. Her time in a writers’ colony in Taos, New Mexico, during the 1970s fueled her passion, leading to her first historical novel in 1992, a reissued tale of Cleopatra’s rise.
Carolyn Meyer’s Unforgettable Stories
Meyer’s Young Royals series is her crown jewel, a collection of novels that dive into the lives of iconic royal women. Mary, Bloody Mary (1999) paints a sympathetic portrait of Mary Tudor, capturing her struggles under the shadow of her father, Henry VIII, and her stepmother, Anne Boleyn. Anastasia: The Last Grand Duchess (2000) brings the tragic Romanov princess to life, blending lush historical detail with Anastasia’s youthful voice, earning praise for its balance of momentum and emotion. Beware, Princess Elizabeth (2001) follows the future queen through betrayal and imprisonment, showcasing Meyer’s knack for first-person narratives that resonate with teens.
Beyond the Young Royals, Meyer’s versatility shines in works like Girl with a Camera (2017), a fictionalized account of photographer Margaret Bourke-White’s daring career, and The True Adventures of Charley Darwin (2009), narrated by a young Charles Darwin. Her writing style—rich with historical accuracy yet accessible—makes complex figures relatable, while her themes of resilience and identity speak to young readers navigating their own challenges.
Meyer’s non-fiction, like Amish People: Plain Living in a Complex World (1976), reflects her curiosity about diverse cultures, informed by her own encounters with Amish communities near her hometown. This blend of fiction and non-fiction underscores her ability to educate and entertain.
Why Carolyn Meyer Matters
Carolyn Meyer’s impact on young adult literature lies in her ability to humanize history’s giants, making them accessible to teens. Her novels, lauded for their “masterful characterizations” and “gripping historical drama,” have inspired countless readers to explore history through a personal lens. Recognized by the American Library Association and the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association, Meyer’s work bridges education and entertainment, encouraging young minds to embrace the past with curiosity.
Now living in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with her husband, E.A. Mares, Meyer continues to inspire through school visits and her passion for storytelling. Her legacy is one of empowerment, showing young readers—especially girls—that history’s heroines are as bold and relatable as they are.
- Born: June 8, 1935, Lewistown, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: Young Royals series, Girl with a Camera, The True Adventures of Charley Darwin
- Awards: Ten Best Books for Young Adults (ALA), Pennsylvania School Librarians Association Outstanding Author Award
Snag Anastasia: The Last Grand Duchess or dive into the Young Royals series to experience Carolyn Meyer’s spellbinding historical fiction!