Picture a Connecticut-born storyteller who turned childhood dreams and a battle with cancer into a treasure trove of children’s books—meet Kara LaReau! With a knack for blending humor and heart, LaReau crafts stories like The Infamous Ratsos that captivate young readers, proving that even the toughest challenges can spark creativity.
From her early days as an editor to becoming a celebrated author, LaReau’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of storytelling. Her books, filled with quirky characters and meaningful lessons, have left a mark on children’s literature, inviting kids to laugh, learn, and embrace their unique selves.
The Making of Kara LaReau
Born in the 1970s in Stratford, Connecticut, Kara LaReau grew up in a lively, dysfunctional yet loving family, sporting hand-me-down bell-bottoms and a crush on Shaun Cassidy. A self-described snarky and imaginative kid, she discovered her love for the arts in high school, sneaking into the theater to hone her skills. After earning a Master of Fine Arts in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College, LaReau dove into the publishing world, editing acclaimed titles like Kate DiCamillo’s Because of Winn-Dixie at Candlewick Press and Scholastic Press. Her decade-long editing career laid the foundation for her own writing, but it was a life-altering cancer diagnosis in 2010, followed by another in 2011, that pushed her to pursue her true passion: writing for children.
Kara LaReau’s Unforgettable Stories
LaReau’s books are a delightful mix of wit, subversion, and heart, often exploring themes of kindness, resilience, and empathy. Her chapter book series The Infamous Ratsos, illustrated by Matt Myers, follows brothers Louie and Ralphie Ratso as they navigate their tough-guy personas with unexpected acts of kindness. The series, a Geisel Honor recipient, resonates with young readers through its humor and relatable lessons. The Unintentional Adventures of the Bland Sisters, a middle-grade trilogy illustrated by Jen Hill, takes twins Jaundice and Kale on quirky, swashbuckling escapades, celebrating the joy of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
LaReau’s picture books, like Ugly Fish, illustrated by Scott Magoon, tackle bullying with a darkly funny twist, while Baby Clown, illustrated by Matthew Cordell, humorously captures parental persistence. Her stories, often inspired by her son, Camden, reflect her commitment to raising empathetic, thoughtful children. LaReau’s writing style—playful yet poignant—makes her books accessible and engaging, earning her a loyal following among kids, parents, and educators.
Why Kara LaReau Matters
Kara LaReau’s impact on children’s literature lies in her ability to weave humor with meaningful messages, encouraging young readers to embrace kindness and courage. Her stories resonate with children who feel like outsiders, much like LaReau did in her youth, offering them characters who find strength in their quirks. As a cancer survivor, she inspires aspiring authors to persevere through adversity, showing that creativity can flourish in the face of challenges. Her work as an editor and consultant through Bluebird Works also nurtures new talent, shaping the next generation of storytellers.
LaReau’s books have earned accolades, including the Indie Next Pick for Rise of ZomBert, and her school visits spark inspiration in young minds, just as an author’s visit did for her as a child. Her legacy is one of laughter, learning, and the quiet power of stories to change lives.
- Born: 1970s, Stratford, Connecticut
- Key Works: The Infamous Ratsos, The Unintentional Adventures of the Bland Sisters, Ugly Fish, Baby Clown
- Awards: Geisel Honor for The Infamous Ratsos, Summer 2020 Indie Next Pick for Rise of ZomBert
- Lives: Providence, Rhode Island, with her husband, daughter, and two cats
Snag The Infamous Ratsos and dive into Kara LaReau’s playful, heartfelt world of children’s stories!