Picture a storyteller who spun tales of courage and history from a Tennessee farm—meet Kimberly Brubaker Bradley! Born in 1967 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, this American author has enchanted readers with her heartfelt children’s and young adult novels. Known for her vivid historical settings and deeply relatable characters, Bradley’s stories, like the Newbery Honor-winning The War That Saved My Life, blend resilience with hope, earning her a cherished spot in children’s literature.
The Making of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Growing up in a book-loving family, Bradley was the kid who’d skip recess to chat with the school librarian. Initially drawn to chemistry, she earned a degree from Smith College in 1989. But a fateful children’s literature course, taught by Newbery medalist Patricia MacLachlan, sparked her passion for writing. Encouraged by MacLachlan and author Jane Yolen, Bradley began freelancing for equestrian magazines, eventually trading lab coats for storytelling.
After marrying her high school sweetheart, Bart, she balanced life as a research chemist with late-night writing. By the time her first novel, Ruthie’s Gift, hit shelves in 1998, she was ready to write full-time. Now living on a 52-acre farm in Bristol, Tennessee, with horses, cats, and a dog, Bradley’s life fuels her creative spark.
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley’s Unforgettable Stories
Bradley’s novels are a masterclass in blending historical accuracy with emotional depth. Her breakout hit, The War That Saved My Life (2015), follows Ada, a girl with a clubfoot, escaping abuse during World War II. This Newbery Honor winner captivates with its tender exploration of healing and found family. Its sequel, The War I Finally Won (2017), continues Ada’s journey, earning praise for its vivid wartime details and heartfelt characters.
In Fighting Words (2020), Bradley tackles tough topics like abuse with grace, telling the story of Della, a foster child finding her voice. Jefferson’s Sons (2011) offers a poignant look at Thomas Jefferson’s enslaved children, earning multiple accolades for its nuanced perspective. Bradley’s style—rich with historical texture and authentic, resilient characters—makes her stories resonate across ages.
Her latest, The Night War (2024), dives into Nazi-occupied France, showcasing her knack for immersive historical fiction. Whether it’s the French Resistance or rural Indiana, Bradley’s meticulous research and warm prose bring every setting to life, inviting readers to feel history’s heartbeat.
Why Kimberly Brubaker Bradley Matters
Bradley’s work does more than entertain—it educates and empowers. Her stories give voice to overlooked perspectives, from disabled children to enslaved families, fostering empathy in young readers. Awards like the Newbery Honor and Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books nods reflect her impact, but it’s the letters from kids, saying her books made them feel less alone, that truly mark her legacy. Through her non-profit, Read Appalachian, she also champions access to books, ensuring stories reach every child.
Her ability to weave hope into hardship has made her a beacon in children’s literature, inspiring readers to face their own battles with courage. Bradley’s tales remind us that history isn’t just facts—it’s the human spirit shining through.
About Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
- Born: June 24, 1967, Fort Wayne, Indiana
- Key Works: The War That Saved My Life, Fighting Words, Jefferson’s Sons, The Night War
- Awards: Two-time Newbery Honor, Josette Frank Award, Kirkus Reviews Best Books
- Home: 52-acre farm in Bristol, Tennessee
Ready to dive into a world of courage and history? Snag The War That Saved My Life and discover Kimberly Brubaker Bradley’s unforgettable storytelling!