Picture an English storyteller who whisked readers to the witch trials of the 17th century and the high seas of pirate adventures—meet Celia Rees! Born in 1949, this acclaimed author has enchanted young adults and adults alike with her historical fiction and fantasy novels, blending rich history with gripping narratives. From her bestselling Witch Child to her daring adult debut, Miss Graham's Cold War Cookbook, Rees proves that stories can bridge time and genres with spellbinding ease.
With over 20 books translated into 28 languages, Rees has earned a global following. Her ability to weave historical accuracy with emotional depth makes her a standout in young adult literature. Let’s dive into her journey, from a teacher crafting stories for her students to a literary star whose works resonate across generations.
The Making of Celia Rees
Born on June 17, 1949, in Solihull, West Midlands, Celia Rees grew up with a love for history and storytelling. She studied History and Politics at Warwick University, later earning a master’s in Education from Birmingham University. For 17 years, she taught English in Coventry schools, where her students’ thirst for thrilling, relatable stories sparked her writing career. Frustrated by the lack of exciting British books for teens, Rees began crafting tales of action, horror, and magic, publishing her first novel, Every Step You Take, in 1993. By 1997, she was a full-time writer, ready to make her mark.
Celia Rees’s Unforgettable Stories
Rees is best known for her historical fiction, where meticulous research meets vivid storytelling. Her breakout novel, Witch Child (2000), follows Mary, a young girl fleeing persecution as a witch in 17th-century England, only to face new dangers in a Puritan settlement. The book’s diary-style narrative and haunting themes earned it the Prix Sorcières in France and a Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize shortlisting. Its sequel, Sorceress (2002), continued Mary’s saga, blending Native American mysticism with historical drama.
Pirates! (2003) is another gem, a swashbuckling tale of Nancy Kington and Minerva Sharpe, two women defying gender and racial barriers to become fearsome pirates. Shortlisted for the W.H. Smith Children’s Book Award, it captures Rees’s knack for empowering heroines. In 2020, Rees ventured into adult fiction with Miss Graham’s Cold War Cookbook, a post-WWII spy thriller where a schoolteacher uses recipes to encode secrets. Critics praised its unique premise and compassionate storytelling. Rees’s style—intense, atmospheric, and grounded in historical truths—makes her stories feel both timeless and urgent.
Her versatility shines across genres, from gothic horror like Blood Sinister (1996) to contemporary thrillers like This Is Not Forgiveness (2012). Rees often explores how historical events shape individual lives, crafting characters who defy societal norms. Her love for gothic literature and local legends adds a chilling edge to her work, captivating readers who crave both heart and suspense.
Why Celia Rees Matters
Celia Rees has left an indelible mark on young adult literature, inspiring readers to explore history through the eyes of bold, complex characters. Her books tackle themes of persecution, identity, and resilience, resonating with teens and adults alike. By addressing issues like gender, race, and social justice, Rees’s stories empower readers to question the status quo. Her global reach—translated into 28 languages—shows her universal appeal, while awards like the Prix Sorcières and Di Cento Prize highlight her literary prowess.
As a tutor for the Arvon Foundation and former Chair of the Children’s Writers and Illustrators Group, Rees has mentored aspiring writers, shaping the next generation of storytellers. Her shift to adult fiction proves her storytelling knows no bounds, cementing her legacy as a versatile, impactful author.
About Celia Rees
- Born: June 17, 1949, Solihull, West Midlands, England
- Key Works: Witch Child, Pirates!, Miss Graham’s Cold War Cookbook
- Awards: Prix Sorcières (France), Di Cento Prize (Italy)
- Lives: Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, with her husband, Terry
Snag Witch Child or Pirates! and dive into Celia Rees’s thrilling blend of history and adventure—your next favorite read awaits!