Picture a storyteller who spins tales of middle school mob bosses and magical dwarves with a wink and a grin—meet Chris Rylander! This American author has carved a niche in children’s literature with his uproarious, heartfelt stories that blend humor, mystery, and adventure. From the gritty stalls of school bathrooms to fantastical underground realms, Rylander’s books captivate young readers with their wit and relatability.
Born and raised in North Dakota, Rylander now calls Chicago home, where he pens his stories while munching on raspberry jam and attempting to charm local squirrels. His unique voice—playful, clever, and brimming with heart—has made him a standout in contemporary children’s fiction, earning praise from readers and critics alike.
The Making of Chris Rylander
Growing up in North Dakota, Chris Rylander was surrounded by wide-open plains and a love for storytelling. A fan of movies, music, and sports, he found inspiration in the everyday antics of childhood. His passion for writing took root early, fueled by a knack for crafting tales that made his friends laugh. After moving to Chicago, Rylander honed his craft, eventually breaking into children’s literature with his debut novel, The Fourth Stall, in 2011. This launch marked the start of a career defined by stories that resonate with young readers navigating the chaos of growing up.
Chris Rylander’s Unforgettable Stories
Rylander’s bibliography is a treasure trove of middle-grade adventures. His breakout hit, The Fourth Stall saga, follows Mac, a sixth-grader running a problem-solving business from a school bathroom stall. With its mafia-inspired humor and heartfelt friendships, the trilogy became a fan favorite, earning accolades like the 2012 Flicker Tale Children’s Book Award. Codename Conspiracy, another thrilling series, dives into espionage with Carson Fender, a prankster-turned-spy protecting a powerful computer program in North Dakota. Its fast-paced plot and clever twists appeal to fans of Gordon Korman.
In The Legend of Greg, part of the Epic Series of Failures, Rylander ventures into fantasy. Greg Belmont, an ordinary teen, discovers he’s a magical dwarf in a hidden Chicago underworld. Packed with puns, absurd twists, and a cliffhanger ending, the series showcases Rylander’s knack for blending magic with middle-school mayhem. He also co-authored Clash of the Worlds, the final book in the New York Times bestselling House of Secrets series, adding his signature humor to a tale of mystical creatures invading the real world.
Rylander’s style is a masterclass in balance: his long, amusing chapter titles and witty dialogue keep readers chuckling, while themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery add depth. Whether it’s a spy thriller or a fantasy romp, his stories are accessible yet sophisticated, making them perfect for upper elementary and middle-grade readers.
Why Chris Rylander Matters
Chris Rylander’s impact lies in his ability to make reading irresistible for young audiences. His books turn reluctant readers into bookworms, thanks to their laugh-out-loud humor and relatable characters. By tackling universal themes like loyalty and identity through fantastical lenses, he helps kids navigate their own worlds. His work has been praised by outlets like Kirkus Reviews and Publishers Weekly for its humor and heart, cementing his place in children’s literature. Rylander’s stories remind us that even in the messiest moments of youth, there’s magic to be found.
- Born: North Dakota
- Key Works: The Fourth Stall, Codename Zero, The Legend of Greg, Clash of the Worlds
- Awards: 2012 Flicker Tale Children’s Book Award, 2012 Golden Kite for Humor
- Fun Fact: Rylander loves baseball and statistics, which inspired his standalone novel The Hurricanes of Weakerville.
Snag The Fourth Stall or The Legend of Greg and dive into Chris Rylander’s hilarious, heartfelt world of adventure!