Picture a storyteller who spun tales of samurai, spies, and magical adventures—meet Margi Preus! This American children’s author, known for her Newbery Honor book Heart of a Samurai, weaves history and fiction into stories that captivate young readers. With a knack for vivid characters and immersive worlds, Preus has carved a unique space in children’s literature, drawing from her own adventurous spirit and love for storytelling.
From a kindergarten audition gone awry to crafting award-winning novels, Preus’s journey is as colorful as her books. Her works, celebrated for their rich historical detail and heartfelt narratives, invite readers to explore distant times and places, making history feel alive and relatable.
The Making of Margi Preus
Born in Minnesota, Margi Preus grew up as the youngest of six, surrounded by a family of book lovers. Her early reading adventures included flipping through National Geographic on her dad’s lap, sparking a lifelong curiosity about the world. A pivotal moment came in kindergarten when a failed audition for Sleeping Beauty inspired her to write her own plays—where she could star! This creative spark led to a degree in elementary education from Luther College and a graduate degree from Binghamton University, followed by eclectic jobs like teaching swimming in Alaska and directing a comedy theater in Duluth, Minnesota.
Preus’s love for storytelling blossomed through playwriting before she turned to children’s literature. Her theater background honed her ability to craft engaging narratives, while her passion for history and travel fueled her research-driven novels. Living in Duluth, she now writes in a cozy backyard studio, surrounded by the landscapes that inspire her.
Margi Preus’s Unforgettable Stories
Preus’s books are a tapestry of historical fiction, mystery, and picture books, each infused with meticulous research and vibrant storytelling. Her breakout novel, Heart of a Samurai (2010), tells the true story of Manjiro, a Japanese teen shipwrecked in 1841, who becomes the first Japanese person to live in America. This Newbery Honor winner blends adventure with themes of cultural understanding, earning praise for its immersive prose and Manjiro’s own illustrations.
In Shadow on the Mountain (2012), Preus shifts to World War II Norway, following a teenage spy in the resistance. The novel’s gripping pacing and historical detail make it a standout. West of the Moon (2014), a Minnesota Book Award winner, weaves Norwegian folklore with a young girl’s immigration story, showcasing Preus’s ability to merge myth and reality. Her picture book Celebritrees (2011) delights with tales of famous trees, proving her versatility across formats.
Preus’s style is marked by rich historical settings, relatable characters, and a touch of humor. Her stories often explore resilience and identity, inviting young readers to see the world through others’ eyes. Whether it’s a samurai’s journey or a spy’s daring, her books spark curiosity and empathy.
Why Margi Preus Matters
Margi Preus has left a lasting mark on children’s literature by bringing lesser-known historical stories to life. Her ability to blend fact and fiction makes history accessible and exciting for young readers, fostering a love for learning. Awards like the Newbery Honor and Asian/Pacific American Award for Heart of a Samurai highlight her impact, while her books’ translations and NPR features show her global reach.
Beyond her novels, Preus inspires through school visits and her Northwoods Young Writers Camp, where she nurtures the next generation of storytellers. Her work reminds us that history is full of unsung heroes whose stories deserve to be told, making her a beloved voice in children’s literature.
- Born: Minnesota, USA
- Key Works: Heart of a Samurai, Shadow on the Mountain, West of the Moon, Celebritrees
- Awards: Newbery Honor (2011), Asian/Pacific American Award, Minnesota Book Award
Snag Heart of a Samurai and dive into Margi Preus’s thrilling blend of history and adventure!