Picture an Australian storyteller who whisked millions of young readers into the magical land of Deltora—meet Emily Rodda! With over 100 children’s books under her belt, this beloved author, whose real name is Jennifer Rowe, has spun tales of adventure, riddles, and fantasy that have captivated generations. Her Deltora Quest series alone has sold over 18 million copies worldwide, earning her a permanent spot in the hearts of young readers and a slew of prestigious awards.
Writing under her grandmother’s name as a pseudonym, Rodda blends intricate world-building with fast-paced storytelling, making her books impossible to put down. From reluctant readers to fantasy fanatics, her stories spark imaginations and inspire a love of reading. Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this literary gem!
The Making of Emily Rodda
Born Jennifer June Rowe on April 2, 1948, in Sydney, Australia, Rodda grew up on the city’s North Shore with two younger brothers. Her father, a TV executive, immersed her in a world of storytelling through shows like My Name’s McGooley, What’s Yours? She attended Abbotsleigh School for Girls and later earned a Master of Arts in English Literature from the University of Sydney in 1973. Rodda’s early career in publishing, starting as an assistant editor at Paul Hamlyn and later rising to publisher at Angus & Robertson, honed her knack for spotting great stories. It was while telling bedtime tales to her daughter that she penned her first book, Something Special, in 1984, launching her writing career under the pen name Emily Rodda.
Emily Rodda’s Unforgettable Stories
Rodda’s bibliography is a treasure trove of children’s literature, spanning picture books to young adult novels. Her most famous work, the Deltora Quest series, follows three companions—Lief, Barda, and Jasmine—as they journey to recover seven magical gems to defeat the evil Shadow Lord. First published in 2000, the series’ clever puzzles and vivid world have made it a global hit, inspiring an anime and selling over 18 million copies. Rowan of Rin, another beloved series, centers on a timid boy tackling epic quests, blending mystery and courage in a way that resonates with younger readers.
Other gems include Fairy Realm, a whimsical series for younger kids, and His Name Was Walter, a 2018 standalone novel that weaves fantasy and mystery. Rodda’s style is marked by tight plots, riddle-filled narratives, and relatable characters, often inspired by people she knows. Her love for word games and murder mysteries shines through, making her stories both intellectually engaging and emotionally rich.
Why Emily Rodda Matters
Emily Rodda’s impact on children’s literature is profound. Her books have turned countless non-readers into book lovers, with fans praising Deltora Quest for sparking their passion for reading. Her six Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year awards and the 2019 Companion of the Order of Australia honor her contributions to Australian literature. Rodda’s ability to craft escapist yet meaningful stories has inspired multiple generations, and her advocacy for children’s literacy continues to shape young minds.
Her work also bridges cultural gaps, with translations in over 30 countries and adaptations like the Japanese Deltora Quest anime. Living in the Blue Mountains with her husband and their naughty Labrador, Sadie, Rodda remains a literary force, still writing and consulting for publishers.
About Emily Rodda
- Born: April 2, 1948, Sydney, Australia
- Key Works: Deltora Quest, Rowan of Rin, His Name Was Walter
- Awards: Six CBCA Book of the Year awards, Companion of the Order of Australia (2019)
- Fun Fact: She wrote adult mysteries as Jennifer Rowe and created storylines for the TV series Murder Call.
Ready to embark on a magical adventure? Snag The Forests of Silence from the Deltora Quest series and dive into Emily Rodda’s spellbinding world of fantasy!