Picture a Utah-born storyteller who weaves fairy tales with a Victorian flair and a touch of animation magic—meet Heather Dixon Wallwork! A self-proclaimed Mary Poppins addict, this young adult fantasy author and animation artist has enchanted readers with her lush, visual narratives. Her debut novel, Entwined, and subsequent works blend her love for dance, fairy tales, and Victorian aesthetics into spellbinding stories that feel like stepping into a sparkling forest.
Heather’s multifaceted career as a storyboard artist, animation director, and HarperCollins author sets her apart. Her ability to craft vivid worlds, inspired by her animation background, has made her a beloved figure in young adult fantasy. Ready to dive into her whimsical universe? Let’s explore her journey!
The Making of Heather Dixon Wallwork
Born and raised in West Point, Utah, Heather grew up in a bustling family of four brothers and six sisters, a dynamic that likely fueled her knack for writing lively, sibling-filled stories. Her passion for storytelling blossomed early, inspired by fairy tales like The Twelve Dancing Princesses and the visual magic of Disney’s Cinderella. She pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation at Brigham Young University, graduating in 2007. While at BYU, Heather took a creative writing class that sparked her literary journey, leading to her first novel as a homework assignment. Her animation career took off as a story lead for Disney Interactive, contributing to films like Moana and Monsters University, and later freelancing for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Heather Dixon Wallwork’s Unforgettable Stories
Heather’s novels are a love letter to fairy tales, infused with her signature visual flair and Victorian charm. Her debut, Entwined (2011), is a retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses, following Azalea and her eleven sisters as they defy mourning to dance in a magical pavilion, only to face a sinister Keeper. Readers praise its lush prose, Victorian setting, and dance-filled narrative, with top hats and corsets adding historical sparkle.
Illusionarium (2015) ventures into steampunk, weaving a tale of Jonathan, a scientist navigating parallel worlds to cure a plague. While less universally loved, its cinematic scope echoes Heather’s animation roots. The Enchanted Sonata (2018), a blend of The Nutcracker and The Pied Piper, follows Clara Stahlbaum in a magical empire of rats and music-wielding magicians. Fans adore its fast-paced plot and vivid characters. Heather’s stories shine with feminine protagonists, chivalrous heroes, and a playful tone, often likened to Pixar films for their wit and wonder.
Her writing process mirrors her storyboarding, with characters visualized as if drawn on a sketchpad. This synergy between art and prose creates immersive worlds that linger with readers, making her a standout in young adult fantasy.
Why Heather Dixon Wallwork Matters
Heather Dixon Wallwork’s impact lies in her ability to breathe new life into classic fairy tales, blending them with Victorian aesthetics and animation-inspired visuals. Her stories resonate with readers who crave escapist yet emotionally rich narratives, particularly young adults drawn to fantasy and romance. By championing strong, feminine heroines and heartfelt family dynamics, she offers a fresh take on traditional tales, inspiring a new generation of fairy tale lovers.
Her dual career as an animation artist and author also highlights the power of cross-disciplinary creativity, showing how visual storytelling can enhance written narratives. Heather’s indie-published works, like The Enchanted Sonata, reflect her determination to control her artistic vision, from cover design to narrative tone, making her a trailblazer for modern authors.
- Birthplace: West Point, Utah
- Key Works: Entwined (2011), Illusionarium (2015), The Enchanted Sonata (2018)
- Notable Achievement: Won the Highlights annual fiction contest with Rotterdam Christmas
- Favorite Dance: Viennese waltz
Snag Entwined and dive into Heather Dixon Wallwork’s enchanting blend of fairy tales and Victorian whimsy! Her stories are perfect for cozy nights with hot chocolate and a craving for magic.