Picture a storyteller who spins heartwarming tales of puppies and kittens, capturing the hearts of young readers everywhere—meet Ellen Miles! This American author, best known for her beloved Puppy Place and Kitty Corner series, has a knack for blending adventure, compassion, and everyday life into stories that inspire kids to love reading. From her cozy home in Vermont, Miles crafts narratives that celebrate the joy of animals and the power of imagination.
Born in New York City, Miles grew up with a love for books and animals, a passion that would shape her prolific career. Her stories, published by Scholastic, have been translated into French and Spanish, reaching children across the globe. With a light, engaging style, Miles invites readers into worlds where every pet finds a home and every child can dream big.
The Making of Ellen Miles
Born on April 8, 1957, in New York City, Ellen Miles was a bookworm from kindergarten, inspired by authors like Beverly Cleary and her own mother, Betty Miles, a children’s book writer. Growing up with a tortoiseshell cat named Jenny, Miles developed a deep love for animals, which later became the heart of her storytelling. After moving to Vermont, she embraced the state’s natural beauty, finding inspiration in its mountains and forests. Her early writing included a fourth-grade play about Tom Sawyer, hinting at the creative spark that would define her career.
Miles began writing professionally over thirty years ago, initially penning mysteries like the 7 Sister Mysteries series. However, it was her shift to animal-centric stories that cemented her legacy. Her ability to weave relatable characters and wholesome themes into chapter books made her a favorite among young readers and parents alike.
Ellen Miles’s Unforgettable Stories
Ellen Miles’s most iconic work is the Puppy Place series, launched in 2006 with Goldie, the story of a golden retriever puppy fostered by the Peterson family. Now spanning over 60 books, the series follows siblings Charles and Lizzie as they care for puppies like Scout, a German shepherd with search-and-rescue potential, and Zipper, a lively hound mix inspired by Miles’s own dog. Each book combines heartwarming narratives with lessons on responsibility and compassion.
The Kitty Corner series, starting with Callie in 2011, caters to cat lovers, featuring Mia and Michael Battelli as they foster kittens like a tiny calico with a broken paw. Miles also created the Taylor-Made Tales series, where a storytelling teacher, Mr. Taylor, spins imaginative yarns around objects chosen by students, as seen in The Dog’s Secret and The Pirate’s Plot. Her writing style is accessible yet adventurous, with themes of empathy, problem-solving, and the magic of storytelling shining through.
Miles’s stories stand out for their ability to spark imagination while teaching kids about pet care and emotional resilience. Her research into dog breeds and animal behaviors adds authenticity, making each character—furry or human—feel real and relatable.
Why Ellen Miles Matters
Ellen Miles has left an indelible mark on children’s literature by fostering a love of reading in countless young fans. Her Puppy Place series, in particular, has helped millions of kids discover the joy of books, with readers often writing to Miles about how her stories inspired them to read more or adopt pets. Her focus on fostering animals resonates with themes of kindness and responsibility, making her books a staple in classrooms and homes.
Beyond her stories, Miles’s connection with readers—through letters and emails—highlights her impact. She cherishes fan drawings and stories about their pets, reinforcing her mission to pass on her love of reading. In Vermont, where she skis, bikes, and cooks, Miles continues to write, inspiring the next generation of animal lovers and storytellers.
- Born: April 8, 1957, New York City
- Key Works: Puppy Place, Kitty Corner, Taylor-Made Tales
- Fun Fact: Her dog inspired the Puppy Place book Zipper!
Snag Goldie or Callie and dive into Ellen Miles’s heartwarming world of pets and adventure!