Picture an Oregon storyteller who traded social work for sagebrush and spun tales of resilient women—meet Jane Kirkpatrick! A New York Times bestselling author, Kirkpatrick has charmed readers with her historical fiction and inspirational non-fiction, blending meticulous research with heartfelt narratives of faith and perseverance. Her journey from a remote ranch to literary stardom is as captivating as her stories.
The Making of Jane Kirkpatrick
Born in 1946 in Mondovi, Wisconsin, Jane Kirkpatrick grew up surrounded by extended family, fostering a deep sense of community that later infused her writing. She studied English at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee before switching to social work, earning a master’s degree. In 1974, she fell in love with Oregon’s rugged beauty and moved to Bend. After years as a mental health professional, including 17 years at the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, she and her husband, Jerry, took a leap of faith, settling on a 160-acre ranch along the John Day River. There, amidst early morning writing sessions and ranch chores, her literary career began.
Jane Kirkpatrick’s Unforgettable Stories
Kirkpatrick’s novels are a tapestry of historical accuracy and emotional depth, often inspired by real women who shaped the American West. Her debut, Homestead (1991), chronicled her own ranching adventure, setting the stage for her signature style. A Sweetness to the Soul (1996), which won the Wrangler Award, tells the story of Jane Herbert, a young pioneer seeking forgiveness and love, inspired by a Depression-era essay about Jane Sherar. The Daughter’s Walk (2011) explores Clara Estby’s journey after a cross-country trek, weaving themes of independence and family. Where Lilacs Still Bloom (2012), a Carol Award winner, follows Hulda Klager’s quest to hybridize plants, reflecting Kirkpatrick’s knack for uncovering unsung heroines. Her Christian faith subtly underpins her work, but her focus on story over sermon makes her novels universally inspiring.
Kirkpatrick’s research is rigorous—she combs libraries, museums, and interviews descendants to ensure historical fidelity, calling facts the “spine” of her books. Her dialogue, crafted as “approximate speech,” transports readers to bygone eras, while her enhanced characters breathe life into history. With over 40 books, she’s maintained a prolific pace, publishing at least one title annually, even after her husband’s stroke in 2010 prompted a move back to Bend.
Why Jane Kirkpatrick Matters
Jane Kirkpatrick’s impact lies in her ability to illuminate the resilience of ordinary women, making history accessible and relatable. Her novels resonate with readers seeking stories of hope, faith, and courage, earning her a loyal following and accolades like the WILLA Literary Award and Will Rogers Medallion. By prioritizing narrative over preaching, she bridges Christian and secular audiences, offering inspiration to all. Her international speaking engagements and essays in publications like The Oregonian further amplify her voice, celebrating the power of storytelling.
- Born: 1946, Mondovi, Wisconsin
- Key Works: A Sweetness to the Soul, The Daughter’s Walk, Where Lilacs Still Bloom
- Awards: Wrangler Award, WILLA Literary Award, Carol Award
- Fun Fact: She wrote her first novel while living in a trailer on the Warm Springs Reservation!
Snag A Sweetness to the Soul and dive into Jane Kirkpatrick’s inspiring world of historical fiction!