Picture a storyteller who wove tales of faith, history, and heart, all while breathing new life into a forgotten literary giant—meet Michael Phillips! Born in 1946 in Arcata, California, this bestselling American author has penned over 100 books, blending Christian themes with rich historical narratives. His passion for reviving the works of 19th-century Scottish author George MacDonald has made him a beloved figure in Christian literature, inspiring readers to explore deeper spiritual truths.
The Making of Michael Phillips
Michael Phillips grew up in a small university town, the son of a WWII veteran and a bookkeeper. His early years were steeped in Christian values, but it wasn’t until a transformative encounter with God in Germany in 1969, sparked by Quaker Thomas Kelly’s writings, that his faith truly took root. A physics graduate from Humboldt State University, Phillips initially ran independent bookstores with his wife, Judy, before diving into writing in 1977. His first book chronicled Judy’s pregnancy, but his heart soon turned to fiction and the legacy of George MacDonald.
Michael Phillips’s Unforgettable Stories
Phillips’s novels are sweeping sagas that blend history, faith, and human resilience. His Shenandoah Sisters series, starting with Angels Watching Over Me, follows two girls—one a slave’s daughter, the other a plantation owner’s—navigating the Civil War’s aftermath. The Russians series, co-authored with Judith Pella, explores pre-revolutionary Russia through the lives of two intertwined families. His Caledonia series, including Legend of the Celtic Stone, weaves a fictionalized history of Scotland with meticulous research. Phillips’s style is immersive, with vivid characters and spiritual depth, often reflecting his belief in God’s guiding presence.
Beyond fiction, Phillips has authored over 20 non-fiction works, many exploring the nature of God and Christian living, such as A God to Call Father. His most significant contribution, however, is his work on George MacDonald. Phillips edited 18 of MacDonald’s novels, published 80 titles about the Scotsman, and wrote the acclaimed biography George MacDonald: Scotland’s Beloved Storyteller. His efforts sparked a MacDonald renaissance, making these works accessible to modern readers.
Why Michael Phillips Matters
Michael Phillips’s impact on Christian literature is profound. His novels, translated into eight languages, have sold millions, offering readers stories that entertain while deepening their faith. His dedication to George MacDonald’s legacy has preserved a vital piece of Christian literary heritage, influencing countless spiritual seekers. Phillips’s ability to weave faith into diverse settings—from Civil War America to Victorian Scotland—has made him a versatile voice, inspiring readers to seek intimacy with their Creator.
- Born: December 13, 1946, Arcata, California
- Key Works: Shenandoah Sisters series, The Russians series, George MacDonald: Scotland’s Beloved Storyteller
- Notable Contribution: Revived interest in George MacDonald’s works
Ready to dive into a world of faith and history? Snag Angels Watching Over Me or George MacDonald: Scotland’s Beloved Storyteller and discover Michael Phillips’s timeless storytelling!