Picture an American storyteller who spun a tale of Holocaust survival into a global bestseller—meet Jenna Blum! Born around 1970, this New York Times bestselling author weaves her Jewish-German heritage into novels that explore the depths of human resilience and moral complexity. With a knack for historical fiction that’s both literary and accessible, Blum has captivated readers worldwide while shaping new writers through her teaching.
From her debut novel Those Who Save Us to her heartfelt memoir about her dog, Blum’s work is a testament to storytelling’s power to heal and connect. Let’s dive into her journey, from a young writer penning stories at age four to a literary force celebrated by Oprah as one of her Top 30 Women Writers.
The Making of Jenna Blum
Born to a Jewish father and a part-German mother, Jenna Blum grew up in the United States, her dual heritage shaping her fascination with history’s moral gray areas. By age four, she was already scribbling stories, and at 16, she won Seventeen Magazine’s National Fiction Contest with her short story 'The Legacy of Frank Finklestein.' A graduate of Kenyon College (B.A., English) and Boston University (M.A., Creative Writing), Blum honed her craft while editing AGNI literary magazine and teaching at Boston University. Her early career included a profound stint interviewing Holocaust survivors for Steven Spielberg’s Shoah Foundation, an experience that deeply influenced her writing.
Jenna Blum’s Unforgettable Stories
Blum’s debut novel, Those Who Save Us (2004), is a haunting exploration of a German woman’s survival during World War II and her daughter’s quest to uncover her past. A New York Times bestseller and winner of the Ribalow Prize, judged by Elie Wiesel, it became a book club favorite and Holland’s #1 bestselling novel. Blum’s meticulous research, including her Shoah Foundation work, brought authenticity to its portrayal of non-Jewish Germans navigating the Holocaust’s brutality.
Her second novel, The Stormchasers (2010), shifts gears to a thrilling tale of twins grappling with a dark secret while chasing tornadoes in the Midwest. Inspired by Blum’s five years with a Minnesota storm-chasing company, it’s a Boston Globe bestseller that blends adrenaline with emotional depth. The Lost Family (2018) spans three decades, weaving a poignant story of loss and love through a Jewish family’s post-war struggles, earning starred reviews from major trades. Beyond novels, Blum’s memoir Woodrow on the Bench (2021) offers a tender reflection on life lessons learned from her aging black Lab, resonating with dog lovers everywhere.
Blum’s style is cinematic yet intimate, blending historical accuracy with vivid characters facing moral dilemmas. Her ability to craft stories that are both heart-wrenching and hopeful has made her a standout in historical fiction, appealing to readers who crave depth with a touch of accessibility.
Why Jenna Blum Matters
Jenna Blum’s impact extends far beyond her books. As a teacher at Boston’s Grub Street Writers for over two decades, she’s mentored countless aspiring novelists, fostering a vibrant literary community. Her co-founding of A Mighty Blaze, a digital platform launched during the pandemic to promote authors online, showcases her commitment to supporting writers in a changing industry. Blum’s public speaking, from book clubs to international events, brings her stories to life, connecting with readers through shared humanity.
Her work, rooted in her heritage and historical research, amplifies voices often overlooked in mainstream narratives, making her a vital voice in contemporary literature. By tackling themes of survival, identity, and redemption, Blum invites readers to reflect on the past while finding hope for the future.
- Born: c. 1970, United States
- Key Works: Those Who Save Us, The Stormchasers, The Lost Family, Woodrow on the Bench
- Awards: Ribalow Prize (2005), Oprah’s Top 30 Women Writers
- Fun Fact: She chased tornadoes for five years to research The Stormchasers!
About Jenna Blum
Ready to dive into a world of gripping history and heartfelt stories? Snag Those Who Save Us and discover why Jenna Blum’s historical fiction is a must-read!