Picture a Canadian storyteller who brought winged stallions and fearless heroines to life—meet Kate O’Hearn! Born in Toronto and raised in the vibrant heart of New York City, O’Hearn’s fantastical children’s books, especially the beloved Pegasus series, have enchanted young readers worldwide. Her tales weave mythology with modern adventures, sparking imaginations and inspiring courage in the face of epic challenges.
With a life as colorful as her stories, O’Hearn’s journey from the fashion industry to a celebrated author is a testament to her boundless creativity. Her knack for blending ancient myths with contemporary settings has made her a standout in children’s fantasy, inviting readers to soar through worlds where ordinary kids become extraordinary heroes.
The Making of Kate O’Hearn
Born in Toronto, Canada, Kate O’Hearn grew up with three brothers, embracing a tomboy spirit in a bustling New York City apartment—the same one where she imagined Pegasus crashing onto the roof during a thunderstorm! Her family’s travels across the U.S. and Europe exposed her to diverse cultures, fueling her vivid imagination. From picturing dragons over Fifth Avenue to whales in Florida’s seas, O’Hearn’s childhood daydreams laid the foundation for her storytelling. Before writing, she thrived in the fashion industry, working at Calvin Klein and Oleg Cassini, but her love for Greek mythology and adventure stories eventually called her to the page.
Her writing career kicked off with Shadow of the Dragon: Kira in 2008, which won the 1066 Schools’ Book Award. Encouraged by her mother and undeterred by early rejections, O’Hearn found her true passion in crafting high-fantasy tales for young readers, addressing the lack of strong female leads she noticed in adventure books growing up.
Kate O’Hearn’s Unforgettable Stories
O’Hearn’s Pegasus series, spanning six books from 2011 to 2016, is her crowning achievement. The series begins with The Flame of Olympus, where 13-year-old Emily teams up with Pegasus to save Olympus from monstrous Nirads during a New York City blackout. Packed with Roman gods, thrilling battles, and heartwarming friendships, the series captivates with its blend of mythology and modern stakes. Readers adore Emily’s bravery and Pegasus’s loyalty, making it a staple for middle-grade fantasy fans.
Beyond Pegasus, O’Hearn’s Valkyrie trilogy (2013–2016) dives into Norse mythology, following Freya, a reluctant Valkyrie, on quests that challenge her views on humans. Her Titans series (2019–2021) continues the Pegasus universe, while Escape from Atlantis (2021) introduces a fresh mythological adventure. O’Hearn’s style is vivid and accessible, with strong, compassionate heroines who face danger with grit and heart, appealing to readers who crave action and emotional depth.
Her stories often explore themes of unity, courage, and self-discovery, reflecting her belief that adventures are for everyone. By placing girls at the heart of epic quests, O’Hearn reshapes traditional fantasy, making her worlds inclusive and empowering for all readers.
Why Kate O’Hearn Matters
Kate O’Hearn’s impact lies in her ability to make mythology accessible and exciting for young readers. Her stories bridge ancient legends with modern settings, inspiring kids to see themselves as heroes in their own lives. By championing female protagonists, she’s challenged genre norms, offering role models who are as brave as they are kind. Fans praise her for creating worlds that feel “completely believable,” with characters they can’t help but root for.
Now living on England’s south coast, O’Hearn continues to write, delighting fans with new tales and even a children’s musical, The Caterpillar and the Blackbird. Her legacy is one of imagination and empowerment, encouraging readers to face challenges with the same boldness as her characters.
- Born: Toronto, Canada
- Key Works: Pegasus series, Valkyrie trilogy, Titans series, Escape from Atlantis
- Award: 1066 Schools’ Book Award for Shadow of the Dragon: Kira
- Fun Fact: She once imagined Pegasus landing on her New York apartment roof!
Snag The Flame of Olympus and dive into Kate O’Hearn’s thrilling world of mythology and adventure!