Picture a New England storyteller who weaves tales of resilience, love, and unexpected joy—meet Jacqueline Sheehan! A novelist and essayist with a Ph.D. in psychology, Sheehan crafts stories that pulse with authenticity, drawing from her diverse life and deep understanding of the human spirit. From historical fiction to heartwarming contemporary tales, her books invite readers into worlds where courage and connection triumph.
The Making of Jacqueline Sheehan
Born and raised in New England, Jacqueline Sheehan’s roots run deep in the region’s rugged charm. Yet, her adventurous spirit led her to spend two decades in the western states—Oregon, California, and New Mexico—where she juggled eclectic roles like house painting, freelance photography, and directing a troupe of high school puppeteers. These experiences shaped her empathetic storytelling. A practicing psychologist, Sheehan began writing fiction to explore the complexities of human emotions, debuting with a novel that brought a legendary figure to life.
Jacqueline Sheehan’s Unforgettable Stories
Sheehan’s debut, The Comet’s Tale: A Novel About Sojourner Truth (2003), reimagines the early life of the abolitionist heroine with vivid prose and psychological depth. Praised by The New York Times for its lively historical detail, it set the stage for her signature blend of heart and history. Her Peaks Island series, starting with Lost & Found (2007), a New York Times bestseller, follows Rocky Pelligrino, a grieving widow finding solace through a loyal black Lab named Lloyd. Its sequel, Picture This (2012), deepens the emotional journey with themes of redemption. The Center of the World (2016) tackles a mother-daughter bond against the backdrop of Guatemala’s civil war, showcasing Sheehan’s ability to weave global issues into intimate narratives. Her latest, The Tiger in the House (2017), is a gripping tale of sisters and secrets, lauded for its suspense and emotional pull.
Sheehan’s writing style is both lyrical and accessible, with a knack for crafting characters—human and canine—who feel like old friends. Her themes of loss, healing, and the transformative power of relationships resonate deeply, earning her a devoted readership and translations into eight languages.
Why Jacqueline Sheehan Matters
Jacqueline Sheehan’s impact lies in her ability to illuminate the human condition with compassion and clarity. Her novels bridge historical and contemporary worlds, offering readers a lens into resilience and hope. As a teacher at Grub Street in Boston and international retreats, she inspires aspiring writers to find their voices. Her work with incarcerated women, editing Women Writing in Prison, reflects her commitment to amplifying marginalized stories. Sheehan’s storytelling reminds us that even in our darkest moments, connection can light the way.
- Born: New England, USA
- Key Works: The Comet’s Tale, Lost & Found, Picture This, The Center of the World, The Tiger in the House
- Notable: New York Times bestselling author; books translated into eight languages
Ready to dive into Jacqueline Sheehan’s heartfelt worlds? Snag Lost & Found and let her soulful storytelling sweep you away!