Picture an American storyteller who unearthed the forgotten triumphs of trailblazing women doctors—meet Olivia Campbell! A Philadelphia-based journalist and New York Times bestselling author, Campbell has captivated readers with her vivid narratives about women who defied odds in science and medicine. Her debut, Women in White Coats, shines a light on the first female doctors, blending meticulous research with a knack for storytelling that feels like a cozy chat with a friend.
With essays gracing the pages of The Washington Post, Scientific American, and National Geographic, Campbell’s work doesn’t just inform—it inspires. Her focus on women’s contributions to history has made her a beloved voice in biography and science writing, proving that the past holds lessons for today’s dreamers.
The Making of Olivia Campbell
Born in Virginia, Olivia Campbell’s path to authorship was anything but ordinary. A former ballet dancer, she pivoted to journalism after a foot injury in college, later earning a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master’s in science writing from Johns Hopkins University. A traumatic childbirth experience and postpartum depression shifted her focus to women’s health, sparking a passion for uncovering stories of women in medicine. Freelancing for top-tier publications, she honed her craft, blending personal insight with historical depth.
Olivia Campbell’s Unforgettable Stories
Campbell’s breakout book, Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine (2021), chronicles the lives of Elizabeth Blackwell, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, and Sophia Jex-Blake—three Victorian women who shattered barriers to become licensed doctors. Her chatty, accessible style brings their struggles and triumphs to life, earning praise for its balance of heart and rigor. Reviewers call it a ‘fascinating, absorbing’ read, perfect for fans of Hidden Figures.
Her follow-up, Sisters in Science: How Four Women Physicists Escaped Nazi Germany and Made Scientific History (2024), dives into the harrowing journeys of Hedwig Kohn, Lise Meitner, Hertha Sponer, and Hildegard Stücklen. Campbell’s knack for weaving personal drama with scientific breakthroughs makes this another must-read. Her essays, featured in outlets like The Atlantic and The Guardian, explore everything from childbirth innovations to Victorian microscopy, always with a lens on women’s overlooked contributions.
Known for her meticulous research—think diaries, letters, and dusty archives—Campbell crafts narratives that feel alive. Her light, engaging tone invites readers into complex histories, making science and medicine accessible to all. Whether she’s writing about a 19th-century riot against female medical students or the emotional toll of parenting, her work resonates with authenticity and warmth.
Why Olivia Campbell Matters
Olivia Campbell’s work does more than tell stories—it reclaims the legacies of women who shaped science and medicine against all odds. By spotlighting figures like Blackwell and Meitner, she inspires modern readers, especially women, to pursue their ambitions in STEM and beyond. Her books and essays challenge the male-dominated narratives of history, offering a fresh perspective that’s both empowering and enlightening.
As an editor at Parents and Everyday Health, and a thesis advisor at Johns Hopkins, Campbell also mentors the next generation of writers, ensuring her influence extends beyond the page. Her ability to make history feel urgent and relevant has cemented her as a vital voice in nonfiction.
- Born: Virginia, USA
- Key Works: Women in White Coats (2021), Sisters in Science (2024)
- Notable Outlets: The Washington Post, Scientific American, National Geographic
- Education: MA in Science Writing, Johns Hopkins University
Snag Women in White Coats and dive into Olivia Campbell’s vibrant world of history and heroism!