Picture an American storyteller who brought the forgotten history of orphan trains to life—meet Christina Baker Kline! A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Kline weaves historical fiction that tugs at heartstrings, blending resilience and human connection. With eight novels and five nonfiction works, her stories resonate in over 40 countries, making her a beloved voice in contemporary literature.
Born in 1964, Kline’s journey from a small-town upbringing to literary stardom is as captivating as her books. Her ability to uncover hidden histories and craft unforgettable characters has earned her awards and a global fanbase. Let’s dive into the world of Christina Baker Kline!
The Making of Christina Baker Kline
Born in Cambridge, England, Christina Baker Kline grew up across the American South and Maine, soaking up diverse cultures that shaped her storytelling. With a B.A. from Yale, an M.A. from Cambridge, and an M.F.A. from the University of Virginia, she honed her craft as a Henry Hoyns Fellow. Her early career included teaching at Yale, NYU, and Fordham, where she inspired aspiring writers. Kline’s love for literature and history sparked her debut novel, Sweet Water, in 1993, setting the stage for her signature blend of emotional depth and historical insight.
Christina Baker Kline’s Unforgettable Stories
Kline’s novels are a masterclass in historical fiction, weaving meticulous research with lyrical prose. Her breakout hit, Orphan Train (2013), tells the story of a young Irish immigrant and a modern-day foster teen, connected by the little-known history of orphan trains that relocated children from 1854 to 1929. The novel topped bestseller lists for over two years, selling over four million copies worldwide.
A Piece of the World (2017) imagines the life of Christina Olson, the subject of Andrew Wyeth’s iconic painting Christina’s World, exploring themes of isolation and strength. The Exiles (2020) transports readers to 19th-century Australia, following three women navigating hardship and hope. Kline’s upcoming 2025 novel, The Foursome, promises a gripping Civil War-era tale. Her style—vivid, empathetic, and richly detailed—brings forgotten voices to life, earning her the New England Prize for Fiction and Maine Literary Award.
Why Christina Baker Kline Matters
Christina Baker Kline’s impact transcends her page-turning novels. Her stories shine a light on marginalized histories, from orphan trains to indigenous struggles, fostering empathy and understanding. Her work as an educator and mentor, including roles at Stony Brook University’s BookEnds program, nurtures new talent. Kline’s essays in The New York Times and Psychology Today spark conversations on identity and resilience, while her support for literacy through Room to Read amplifies her influence. Her books, chosen as “One Book, One Read” selections, unite communities through shared stories.
- Born: 1964, Cambridge, England
- Key Works: Orphan Train, A Piece of the World, The Exiles
- Awards: New England Prize for Fiction, Maine Literary Award
- Fun Fact: Kline lives in New York City and Southwest Harbor, Maine, with her husband and three sons.
Snag Orphan Train and dive into Christina Baker Kline’s heartfelt historical fiction today!