Picture a Canadian storyteller who spun circus magic into unforgettable young adult tales—meet Jennifer Sommersby! A bestselling author, dedicated mom, and self-proclaimed bibliophile, Sommersby crafts novels that blend supernatural thrills, teenage romance, and ancient lore. Her debut, Sleight, skyrocketed to Amazon’s Top 20 Top-Rated List for YA/Children’s Literature, captivating readers with its vivid circus backdrop and heart-pounding mystery.
From her home in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sommersby channels literary giants like Shakespeare and Suzanne Collins into stories that feel both timeless and fresh. Her AVRA-K series, starting with Sleight, has earned praise for its lush prose and intricate world-building, making her a standout in young adult fantasy.
The Making of Jennifer Sommersby
Born in the United States but a Canadian resident since 2002, Jennifer Sommersby’s journey to authorship was shaped by her love for words and eclectic influences. She studied English, political science, and criminology, later joining Simon Fraser University’s Writer’s Studio in 2007, where she honed her craft. A conversation with a young magician sparked her fascination with ancient magic, inspiring her to weave historical mysticism into her stories. As a part-time copy and line editor, Sommersby’s sharp eye for detail shines through in her polished narratives.
Her daughter’s friend, Alysha, who published a novel at 14, also nudged Sommersby to take her writing seriously. This blend of personal connections and literary passion set the stage for her breakout success, proving that sometimes, inspiration comes from the most unexpected places.
Jennifer Sommersby’s Unforgettable Stories
Sommersby’s AVRA-K series is her crown jewel, beginning with Sleight (2018), a tale of circus performer Genevieve Flannery navigating grief, magic, and a 3,000-year-old text called the AVRAKEDAVRA. Critics, including Michael Grant, praised its “entrancing” prose and vivid characters, from spunky Geni to charming Henry. The novel’s circus setting—complete with elephants named Gertrude and Houdini—adds a bewitching layer to its supernatural stakes.
The sequel, Scheme (or The Undoing in Canada, 2020), continues Geni’s quest to destroy the AVRAKEDAVRA texts, blending global adventure with emotional depth. Sommersby also co-authored Fish Out of Water (2018), a heartwarming Little Mermaid retelling tied to a popular YouTube series, earning accolades as a Canadian Children’s Book Centre Best Book. Her romantic comedies, written as Eliza Gordon, showcase her versatility, offering lighter, laugh-out-loud tales.
Her style is a tapestry of rich descriptions, layered mysteries, and relatable characters. Whether exploring grief, love, or ancient magic, Sommersby’s stories resonate with teens and adults alike, making her a beloved voice in YA fantasy.
Why Jennifer Sommersby Matters
Jennifer Sommersby’s impact lies in her ability to transform niche settings like circuses into universal stories of resilience and discovery. Her focus on strong, intelligent heroines like Geni inspires young readers, while her blend of history and fantasy appeals to those craving depth. Awards like the Ontario Library Association’s Best Bets Honorable Mention highlight her growing influence in YA literature.
As a mother and editor, Sommersby brings authenticity to her work, grounding fantastical tales in human emotion. Her stories remind us that magic exists in the courage to face the unknown, making her a vital voice in modern YA fiction.
- Key Works: Sleight, Scheme/The Undoing, Fish Out of Water
- Awards: Canadian Children’s Book Centre Best Book (2018), Ontario Library Association Best Bets Honorable Mention (2019)
- Fun Fact: She’s a collector of elephants and a Shakespeare enthusiast!
Snag Sleight and dive into Jennifer Sommersby’s spellbinding world of circus magic and ancient secrets!