Picture an American storyteller who turned childhood dreams of rodeo stardom into tales that touch hearts worldwide—meet Lisa Wingate! A former journalist and New York Times bestselling author, Wingate crafts novels that weave hope, family, and hidden history into unforgettable narratives. Her journey from a shy kid with a pencil to a literary star is as inspiring as her stories.
The Making of Lisa Wingate
Born in Germany in 1965 to a computer engineer father and educator mother, Lisa Wingate grew up in Oklahoma after her family moved to the U.S. A first-grade teacher, Mrs. Krackhardt, sparked her writing passion by praising her early stories and predicting her name in magazines. This encouragement stuck, and Wingate honed her craft at Oklahoma State University, earning a B.A. in technical English. Before novels, she wrote for magazines and newspapers, learning the art of concise storytelling that would later define her work.
Lisa Wingate’s Unforgettable Stories
Wingate’s novels, often rooted in historical events, blend Southern fiction with themes of family, resilience, and kindness. Her 2017 blockbuster, Before We Were Yours, a heartrending tale inspired by the Tennessee Children’s Home Society scandal, sold over three million copies and topped the New York Times bestseller list for over a year. The Book of Lost Friends (2020) explores post-Civil War connections through ‘Lost Friends’ ads, showcasing her knack for giving voice to forgotten histories. Tending Roses (2001), her debut inspired by her grandmother’s stories, remains a fan favorite for its heartfelt focus on family bonds. Her latest, Shelterwood (2024), dives into Oklahoma’s ‘elf children’ surviving in the wilderness. Wingate’s style—lyrical, empathetic, and rich with historical detail—makes her a master storyteller, as Booklist notes.
With over 30 novels, Wingate’s work spans mainstream and Christian fiction, translated into 40+ languages. Her stories often draw from real-life experiences, like her grandmother’s tales or historical injustices, creating narratives that resonate with readers seeking hope and human connection. Awards like the Pat Conroy Southern Book Prize and Goodreads Choice Award for Before We Were Yours highlight her literary prowess.
Why Lisa Wingate Matters
Lisa Wingate’s impact goes beyond bestseller lists. Her novels shed light on overlooked histories, fostering empathy and understanding. The National Civics Award from Americans for More Civility honors her commitment to promoting kindness through storytelling. Book clubs and community reads, like the 2019 Fauquier Community Read, embrace her work for its uplifting messages. Wingate’s ability to connect readers with the past and each other cements her legacy as a beacon of hope in historical fiction.
- About Lisa Wingate
- Born: 1965 in Germany, raised in Oklahoma
- Key Works: Before We Were Yours, The Book of Lost Friends, Tending Roses, Shelterwood
- Awards: Pat Conroy Southern Book Prize, Goodreads Choice Award, National Civics Award
- Fun Fact: Once dreamed of being an Olympic gymnast but feared backflips!
Snag Before We Were Yours and dive into Lisa Wingate’s soul-stirring historical fiction! Her stories promise to warm your heart and spark your curiosity.