Picture a storyteller who weaves magic, romance, and self-discovery into unforgettable tales—meet Mette Ivie Harrison! Born in 1970, this Utah-based author has captivated readers with her young adult fantasy novels, most notably the beloved Princess series. With a Ph.D. in Germanic Languages and Literatures from Princeton and a knack for writing at dawn, Harrison balances her prolific career with raising six children, crafting stories that resonate with teens and adults alike.
The Making of Mette Ivie Harrison
Born in Summit, New Jersey, Mette Ivie Harrison grew up as the ninth of eleven children in a vibrant Mormon family. At ten, her family relocated to Provo, Utah, where her father taught computer science at Brigham Young University. A gifted student, Harrison spent a year abroad in a German gymnasium in 1985, fueling her love for language. By 19, she earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in German Literature from BYU, later securing a Ph.D. from Princeton in 1995. Her dissertation on 18th-century female Bildungsromane hinted at her passion for strong, complex female characters, a theme that would define her writing.
Harrison’s writing journey began in earnest after leaving her role as an adjunct professor at BYU in 1997 to focus on fiction. Her debut novel, The Monster in Me, sold in 1999, marking her entry into young adult literature. Despite personal challenges, including the loss of her sixth child in 2005, Harrison’s resilience and dedication to storytelling have shaped her remarkable career.
Mette Ivie Harrison’s Unforgettable Stories
Harrison’s novels blend fairy-tale elements with deep emotional resonance, often exploring identity, magic, and sacrifice. Her Princess series, starting with The Princess and the Hound (2007), is a standout, following Prince George, who hides his forbidden animal magic, and Princess Beatrice, whose bond with her hound holds a surprising secret. Praised for its original take on fairy tales, the series continued with titles like The Princess and the Bear (2009) and The Princess and the Snowbird (2010), each weaving intricate worlds and nuanced characters.
Another gem, Mira, Mirror (2004), reimagines the Snow White tale from the perspective of an enchanted mirror, earning the Utah Letters About Literature award in 2006. Harrison’s writing style, influenced by her Germanic literature background, is lyrical yet accessible, with darker, more introspective tones than typical fairy-tale retellings. Her Linda Wallheim mystery series, beginning with The Bishop’s Wife (2014), ventures into adult fiction, tackling Mormon culture and gender norms with a sharp, empathetic lens.
Whether crafting fantasy or mystery, Harrison’s stories emphasize strong female protagonists and moral complexity, appealing to readers who crave depth in their escapism. Her ability to write during stolen moments—nap times or while dinner simmers—adds a relatable charm to her creative process.
Why Mette Ivie Harrison Matters
Mette Ivie Harrison’s impact lies in her ability to breathe new life into classic narratives, making them accessible yet profound for modern readers. Her Princess series has inspired a loyal following among young adult fantasy fans, while her Linda Wallheim mysteries have sparked discussions about faith, community, and justice in Mormon contexts. Awards like the Utah Letters About Literature and finalist nods from the Association for Mormon Letters underscore her literary prowess.
Beyond her books, Harrison’s journey as a writer, mother, and triathlete inspires aspiring authors, proving that creativity can thrive amid life’s chaos. Her candid essays on Mormonism, autism (diagnosed in 2017), and mental health further amplify her voice, connecting with readers on a personal level.
- Born: September 13, 1970, Summit, New Jersey
- Key Works: The Princess and the Hound, Mira, Mirror, The Bishop’s Wife
- Awards: Utah Letters About Literature (2006), AML Award finalist (2007, 2014, 2015)
- Fun Fact: Harrison is a nine-time Ironman finisher!
Snag The Princess and the Hound and dive into Mette Ivie Harrison’s enchanting world of fantasy and heart!