Picture a chemistry professor by day and a master of young adult mysteries by night—meet E.B. Vickers! Writing under her pen name, Elaine Vickers has captivated readers with her thrilling debut novel Fadeaway and a growing collection of stories that weave suspense, heart, and themes of belonging. Hailing from the Utah desert, Vickers blends her scientific precision with emotional storytelling, creating books that resonate with teens and adults alike.
With a PhD in chemistry and a passion for literature, Vickers is a unique voice in young adult fiction. Her stories tackle tough topics like identity and self-worth, wrapped in page-turning plots that keep readers guessing. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and works of this rising star.
The Making of E.B. Vickers
Elaine Vickers grew up in a small town in the Utah desert, where she spent her childhood reading, playing basketball, and exploring the rugged landscapes. Her love for stories was evident early on, though she also dreamed of being an architect, artist, or even a famous actress. After earning a PhD, she returned to her hometown, balancing a career teaching college chemistry at Southern Utah University with raising three kids and writing. Her creative writing journey began in earnest during her undergraduate years at SUU, where a course sparked her passion for crafting fiction.
Vickers’s dual life as a scientist and storyteller shapes her unique perspective. Her analytical mind brings structure to her mysteries, while her love for connecting with students and readers infuses her work with empathy and relatability. This blend of logic and heart set the stage for her literary breakthrough.
E.B. Vickers’s Unforgettable Stories
Vickers made her young adult debut in 2021 with Fadeaway, a gripping mystery about a high school basketball star, Jake Foster, who vanishes after a championship game. Told through multiple perspectives, including Jake’s brother in poignant verse, the novel unravels secrets about opioid addiction and hidden struggles. Readers praised its emotional depth and suspense, with Kirkus Reviews noting it “keeps readers on the edges of their seats.”
Before Fadeaway, Vickers wrote middle grade novels like Like Magic and Paper Chains, which explore friendship and resilience with a lyrical touch. Her 2023 middle grade novel Half Moon Summer follows two friends navigating life’s changes, earning accolades for its heartfelt storytelling. Her picture books, such as Thankful and Mae and Gerty and the Matter with Matter, bring her love of science to younger readers, making chemistry fun and accessible. Her upcoming YA thriller, Where There’s Smoke, tackles abuse and trust, showcasing her versatility.
VOn the soft, sweet air of the mountain glade, We gathered together in cool, green shade, And told our stories, beginnings to ends, And found our song in the hearts of new friends.” This quote from Like Magic captures Vickers’s lyrical style and focus on connection. Her stories blend suspense, poetry, and real-world issues, making them both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Why E.B. Vickers Matters
E.B. Vickers’s work resonates because it speaks to the universal need for belonging and self-worth. Her novels tackle heavy topics—opioid addiction, abuse, loneliness—with compassion, offering teens stories that mirror their struggles and triumphs. Fadeaway has been lauded for its potential to save lives by addressing the opioid crisis, earning a place in high school libraries. Her picture books inspire young scientists, challenging stereotypes about who can be a chemist.
As a professor, Vickers brings the same passion to teaching, helping students see chemistry as accessible and exciting. Her dual career amplifies her impact, bridging science and storytelling to inspire a new generation. With awards like Whitney Award nominations and translations in multiple languages, Vickers is carving a lasting legacy in young adult literature.
- Born: Grew up in a small Utah desert town
- Key Works: Fadeaway, Like Magic, Half Moon Summer, Thankful
- Awards: Whitney Award nominations, Mighty Girl’s Book of the Year picks
- Fun Fact: Vickers uses her chemistry knowledge in her picture book Mae and Gerty and the Matter with Matter
Snag Fadeaway or Like Magic and dive into E.B. Vickers’s thrilling, heartfelt world! Whether you’re a teen seeking suspense or a parent looking for meaningful stories, her books are a must-read.