Picture a Brooklyn-born storyteller who spun tales of ancient wonders and thrilling mysteries—meet Peter Lerangis! With over 170 books to his name, this American author has enchanted young readers worldwide, selling nearly 7 million copies across 35 langues. From the epic Seven Wonders series to his pulse-pounding contributions to The 39 Clues, Lerangis’s knack for blending adventure, history, and heart has made him a cornerstone of children’s and young adult literature.
His stories aren’t just page-turners; they’re gateways to worlds where kids become heroes, unraveling secrets that span centuries. Whether you’re a fan of time travel or treasure hunts, Lerangis’s imaginative storytelling invites readers to dream big and dive deep into the unknown. Let’s explore the life, works, and lasting impact of this literary trailblazer.
The Making of Peter Lerangis
Born in 1955 in Brooklyn, New York, Peter Duncan Lerangis grew up in Freeport, Long Island, with a love for stories and performance. The son of a telephone company employee and a school secretary, he chased his creative spark to Harvard University, earning a biochemistry degree while starring in musicals and directing the a cappella group, the Krokodiloes. After graduating, Lerangis traded lab coats for the bright lights of Broadway, acting and singing in New York for eight years. But his true calling emerged when he began freelance copyediting, sparking a realization: he could write better stories than some he proofread. By 1986, he was a full-time author, ready to captivate young minds.
Peter Lerangis’s Unforgettable Stories
Lerangis’s bibliography is a treasure trove of adventure, mystery, and heart. His Seven Wonders series, a five-book saga, follows Jack McKinley’s quest to find seven magical Loculi hidden in the ancient wonders of the world. Praised by Rick Riordan as a “high-octane mix of modern adventure and ancient secrets,” all five books hit The New York Times bestseller list, captivating readers with their blend of history and heroism. In The 39 Clues, Lerangis penned four gripping installments, including The Sword Thief and The Viper’s Nest, weaving espionage and family secrets into a global treasure hunt.
His versatility shines in standalone works like Smiler’s Bones, a historical novel about a Polar Eskimo boy in 1900s New York, which earned accolades from the New York Public Library and Junior Library Guild. Co-authored with Harry Mazer, Somebody, Please Tell Me Who I Am won the ALA Schneider Family Book Award for its poignant portrayal of identity and disability. Lerangis’s style—fast-paced, emotionally rich, and layered with historical intrigue—makes his stories accessible yet profound, appealing to reluctant readers and bookworms alike.
Beyond series, Lerangis has penned thrillers like Driver’s Dead, a chilling mystery, and novelizations of films like The Sixth Sense, showcasing his ability to adapt across genres. His Max Tilt trilogy reimagines Jules Verne’s classics, while Throwback explores time travel’s thrilling consequences, proving Lerangis’s endless creativity.
Why Peter Lerangis Matters
Peter Lerangis’s impact on young adult and children’s literature is undeniable. His books have inspired countless young readers to explore history, embrace adventure, and confront complex themes like identity and resilience. With translations in 35 languages and millions of copies sold, his global reach is a testament to his universal appeal. Lerangis’s engaging school visits across 42 states and nine countries, paired with workshops for aspiring writers, have nurtured a new generation of storytellers. Awards like the ALA Schneider and Junior Library Guild selections highlight his ability to craft meaningful narratives that resonate across ages.
His legacy lies in making reading an adventure—an invitation to uncover hidden wonders and find courage within. By blending humor, heart, and history, Lerangis has carved a unique space in literature, proving that stories can both entertain and enlighten.
About Peter Lerangis
- Born: August 19, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York
- Key Works: Seven Wonders, The 39 Clues, Smiler’s Bones, Somebody, Please Tell Me Who I Am
- Awards: ALA Schneider Family Book Award (2013), Junior Library Guild selections
- Fun Fact: He performed on Broadway and rock-climbed during a 6.1 earthquake in Yosemite!
Snag The Colossus Rises or The Sword Thief and dive into Peter Lerangis’s thrilling world of adventure and mystery today!