Picture a storyteller who weaves Norse gods into California’s urban sprawl and sends robots on heartfelt road trips—meet Greg Van Eekhout! This San Diego-based fantasy and science fiction writer has charmed readers with his imaginative tales that blend mythology, adventure, and humor. With a knack for crafting stories that resonate across ages, Van Eekhout’s unique voice, shaped by his Dutch-Indonesian heritage and love for speculative fiction, makes him a standout in the genre.
From Nebula-nominated short stories to middle-grade novels that spark young imaginations, Van Eekhout’s work is a delightful mix of the strange and the familiar. Let’s dive into his journey, from his Los Angeles roots to his unforgettable stories that continue to captivate readers worldwide.
The Making of Greg Van Eekhout
Born in 1967 in Los Angeles to Dutch-Indonesian parents, Greg Van Eekhout grew up surrounded by the vibrant diversity of the city. His love for storytelling blossomed early, fueled by a passion for science fiction and fantasy. He earned a Bachelor’s in English from UCLA and later a Master’s in Educational Media and Computers from Arizona State University, where he designed multimedia projects. In 1999, Van Eekhout attended the Viable Paradise writing workshop, a pivotal moment that honed his craft and launched his career with his first published story, “Wolves Till the World Goes Down,” in 2001.
Greg Van Eekhout’s Unforgettable Stories
Van Eekhout’s bibliography is a treasure trove of speculative fiction, spanning adult urban fantasies and middle-grade adventures. His debut novel, Norse Code (2009), is a thrilling urban fantasy that reimagines Norse mythology in modern Southern California. The story follows Mist, a resurrected Valkyrie, as she navigates a world of gods and monsters, showcasing Van Eekhout’s talent for blending myth with contemporary settings.
For younger readers, Kid vs. Squid (2010) and The Boy at the End of the World (2011) deliver humor and heart. Kid vs. Squid follows Thatcher Hill’s summer adventure battling a giant squid and a cursed Atlantean princess, while The Boy at the End of the World, a post-apocalyptic tale, earned an Andre Norton Award nomination for its poignant story of Fisher, the last boy on Earth, and his robot companion, Click. Van Eekhout’s Daniel Blackland trilogy—California Bones (2014), Pacific Fire (2015), and Dragon Coast (2015)—explores a magical Los Angeles where osteomancers wield bone-based magic, earning praise for its inventive world-building.
Known for his “story grenades”—vivid flash fiction—Van Eekhout’s short stories, like the Nebula-nominated “In the Late December” (2003), pack emotional punches. His work often explores themes of agency, survival, and empathy, wrapped in a playful yet profound style that makes the ordinary feel magical and the strange feel relatable.
Why Greg Van Eekhout Matters
Greg Van Eekhout’s impact lies in his ability to bridge generations with stories that spark wonder and reflection. His multicultural perspective enriches his narratives, offering fresh takes on familiar myths and futuristic worlds. By crafting characters who face impossible odds with courage and wit, he inspires readers to find resilience in their own lives. His middle-grade novels, in particular, have been lauded for empowering young readers, earning spots on lists like the New York Public Library’s best children’s books.
Beyond his stories, Van Eekhout’s journey—from a multimedia designer to a full-time writer—shows the power of persistence. His work continues to influence speculative fiction, proving that even in a crowded genre, a unique voice can shine.
- Born: 1967, Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: Norse Code, California Bones, Kid vs. Squid, The Boy at the End of the World
- Awards: Nebula Award finalist (2003), Andre Norton Award finalist (2012), Locus Award finalist (2015)
- Fun Fact: He practices Northern Shaolin kung fu and loves little tacos!
Snag Norse Code or Kid vs. Squid and dive into Greg Van Eekhout’s spellbinding blend of fantasy and science fiction!