Picture an American storyteller who traded corporate boardrooms for the quirky charm of a fictional Pacific Northwest town—meet Gail Fraser! Known for her heartwarming Lumby series, Fraser spins tales of community, humor, and the magic of everyday life, drawing readers into a world where flamingos named Hank steal the show. With a life as colorful as her stories, she’s a novelist who proves simplicity is the key to enchantment.
The Making of Gail Fraser
Born and raised in Rye, New York, Gail Fraser’s journey to authorship was anything but ordinary. After earning an AA in English from Colby Sawyer College, she studied at the University of London and completed her BA in English Education at Skidmore College. Her academic path culminated with an MBA from the University of Connecticut and graduate work at Harvard. Before picking up the pen, Fraser thrived in corporate America, holding senior executive roles in Fortune 500 companies and traveling to 22 countries, from Australia to Brazil. In 2004, she left the corporate world to pursue her passion for storytelling, settling with her husband, folk artist Art Poulin, on their 40-acre Lazy Goose Farm in upstate New York.
Gail Fraser’s Unforgettable Stories
Fraser’s Lumby series is the heart of her literary legacy, a collection of novels set in the fictional town of Lumby, where quirky characters and gentle humor reign. Her debut, The Lumby Lines (2005), introduces readers to Pam and Mark Walker, innkeepers navigating small-town life with a cast of eccentric locals and a plastic flamingo named Hank. Subsequent books like Stealing Lumby (2007) weave tales of art heists and community spirit, while Lumby’s Bounty (2008) celebrates local festivals with a dose of whimsy. Fraser’s writing style blends warmth, wit, and a touch of satire, creating stories that feel like a cozy visit to a beloved hometown. Her non-fiction work, Finding Happiness in Simplicity (2012), co-authored with Poulin, reflects her philosophy of purposeful living, illustrated with his vibrant folk art.
The Lumby series, including titles like The Promise of Lumby (2009) and Lost in Lumby (2012), resonates with readers for its universal themes of connection and resilience. Fraser’s ability to craft relatable characters—monks making rum sauce, newspaper publishers with hearts of gold—has earned praise for capturing the essence of small-town life. Her seventh novel, Between Lumby and God, was anticipated for release in late 2023, continuing her legacy of heartfelt storytelling.
Why Gail Fraser Matters
Gail Fraser’s work transcends the page, inviting readers to embrace the beauty of simplicity and community. Her Lumby series has carved a niche in contemporary fiction, offering a refreshing antidote to fast-paced modern life. By drawing on her global travels and rural farm life, Fraser infuses her stories with authenticity and charm, inspiring readers to find joy in the little things. Her collaboration with Art Poulin, who passed away in 2018, left a lasting mark on both literature and art, blending words and visuals to celebrate purposeful living. Fraser’s influence lies in her ability to make readers feel at home, no matter where they are.
- Born: Rye, New York
- Key Works: The Lumby Lines, Stealing Lumby, Finding Happiness in Simplicity
- Fun Fact: Fraser is an avid heirloom tomato gardener and long-distance swimmer.
Ready to escape to Lumby? Snag The Lumby Lines and dive into Gail Fraser’s delightful world of humor and heart!