Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of moonlit goddesses and gritty teen struggles—meet Lynne Ewing! With a knack for blending fantasy with the raw realities of youth, Ewing has enchanted young adult readers through series like Daughters of the Moon and standalone novels that pulse with adventure. Her stories, rooted in her globe-trotting childhood and passion for counseling teens, invite readers to embrace their inner strength and face life’s challenges with courage.
Born in Lima, Peru, Ewing’s life was a tapestry of movement, woven from her father’s career in the Marine Corps. Her unique perspective and vibrant storytelling have made her a beloved voice in young adult fantasy, inspiring readers to find magic in the everyday.
The Making of Lynne Ewing
Lynne Ewing’s early life was a whirlwind of change, with her family relocating frequently due to her father’s Marine Corps service. She attended seven schools before graduating high school in Lima, Peru, where she became fluent in Spanish. This nomadic upbringing infused her with a global perspective, later reflected in her diverse characters and settings. After studying at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Ewing worked with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, counseling troubled teens—a role that deeply influenced her writing. At 30, she began penning stories for newspapers, magazines, and screenplays, setting the stage for her literary career.
Lynne Ewing’s Unforgettable Stories
Ewing’s bibliography shines with 24 young adult novels, many of which blend fantasy with the gritty realities of teenage life. Her debut, Drive-By (1996), a raw tale of gang violence, took six years to write and earned accolades like the ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers and the 1999 Arizona Young Readers Award. Party Girl (1999), another ALA Quick Pick, explored redemption and was adapted into the film Living the Life, showcasing Ewing’s knack for cinematic storytelling.
Her most iconic work, the Daughters of the Moon series (2000–2007), follows four Los Angeles teens with supernatural powers—Vanessa, who can become invisible; Catty, a time-traveler; Serena, a mind-reader; and Jimena, gifted with premonitions. This 13-book saga weaves Greek mythology, romance, and battles against the evil Atrox, captivating readers with its blend of magic and relatable teen drama. The Sisters of Isis series, set in Washington, D.C., draws on Egyptian mythology, following three girls with magical powers inherited from pharaoh ancestors. Ewing’s writing style—fast-paced, emotionally resonant, and infused with cultural richness—makes her stories accessible yet thrilling, appealing to both reluctant and avid readers.
Why Lynne Ewing Matters
Lynne Ewing’s impact on young adult fantasy lies in her ability to craft empowering narratives that resonate with teens navigating identity and adversity. Her diverse heroines, inspired by her counseling work, offer readers role models who embrace their unique gifts while confronting real-world issues like gang violence and societal pressures. Translated into seven languages, her books have reached a global audience, encouraging young readers to find courage and community. Ewing’s blend of supernatural intrigue and authentic emotion continues to inspire a new generation of fantasy lovers, cementing her legacy as a storyteller who celebrates resilience.
- Born: January 1, 1938, in Lima, Peru
- Key Works: Daughters of the Moon, Sisters of Isis, Drive-By, Party Girl
- Awards: 1999 Arizona Young Readers Award, ALA Quick Picks
- Fun Fact: Ewing counsels teens and has traveled to countries like Japan, Russia, and Thailand.
Ready to dive into a world of moon goddesses and fearless teens? Snag Goddess of the Night and explore Lynne Ewing’s spellbinding young adult fantasy!