Picture an American storyteller who turned princesses into dragon-saving heroes and spun magic into the Wild West—meet Patricia C. Wrede! Born in 1953, this fantasy author has enchanted readers with her witty, imaginative tales, most notably the beloved Enchanted Forest Chronicles. With a knack for blending humor, adventure, and strong characters, Wrede has carved a unique niche in young adult fantasy, captivating readers for decades.
From her Chicago roots to her full-time writing career, Wrede’s journey is as fascinating as her stories. Let’s dive into the life, works, and lasting magic of this fantasy icon!
The Making of Patricia C. Wrede
Patricia Collins Wrede was born on March 27, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, the eldest of five siblings in a book-loving family. Surrounded by fairy tales, myths, and the Oz series, she began crafting stories in seventh grade, fueled by a voracious reading habit. After earning a BA in Biology from Carleton College in 1974 and an MBA from the University of Minnesota in 1977, Wrede worked as a financial analyst. But her passion for writing took center stage when she penned her first novel, Shadow Magic, in 1978, selling it to Ace Books in 1980. By 1985, she left finance behind to become a full-time writer, joining the vibrant Scribblies writers’ group, which included Pamela Dean and Emma Bull, for five productive years.
Patricia C. Wrede’s Unforgettable Stories
Wrede’s stories are a delightful mix of magic, humor, and subversive twists on classic tropes. Her most famous work, the Enchanted Forest Chronicles, follows Princess Cimorene, who defies royal expectations to become a dragon’s assistant in Dealing with Dragons (1990). The series, including Searching for Dragons, Calling on Dragons, and Talking to Dragons, is celebrated for its witty dialogue and feminist undertones, earning a spot at number 84 on NPR’s 100 Best-Ever Teen Novels list.
Beyond the Enchanted Forest, Wrede’s Frontier Magic trilogy, starting with Thirteenth Child (2009), reimagines the American frontier with magical creatures and a thoughtful heroine, Eff Rothmer. Her Lyra series, including Shadow Magic and The Raven Ring, offers standalone tales in a shared magical world, while Sorcery and Cecelia, co-written with Caroline Stevermer, is an epistolary Regency fantasy brimming with charm. Wrede’s style—playful, character-driven, and rich with worldbuilding—makes her books accessible yet deeply immersive.
Her versatility shines in standalone novels like The Seven Towers and junior novelizations of Star Wars prequels, showcasing her ability to adapt her voice to different audiences. Whether it’s dragons or wizards, Wrede’s stories sparkle with cleverness and heart.
Why Patricia C. Wrede Matters
Patricia C. Wrede’s impact on fantasy lies in her ability to challenge stereotypes while crafting stories that resonate across ages. By creating heroines like Cimorene, who choose adventure over tradition, she empowered young readers, especially girls, to embrace their strength and individuality. Her blend of humor and magic has influenced modern fantasy authors, and her Enchanted Forest Chronicles remain a touchstone for fans of smart, subversive fairy tales. Wrede’s work continues to inspire, with her latest novel, The Dark Lord’s Daughter (2023), proving her storytelling magic is as vibrant as ever.
About Patricia C. Wrede
- Born: March 27, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois
- Key Works: Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Frontier Magic, Sorcery and Cecelia
- Notable Award: The Dark Lord’s Daughter, finalist for the Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Children’s Literature
- Fun Fact: She’s a pescatarian and lives with two cats in the Twin Cities
Snag Dealing with Dragons and dive into Patricia C. Wrede’s whimsical fantasy world today!