Picture a storyteller who weaves history with heart, crafting tales that linger like a warm summer breeze—meet Sarah McCoy! A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, McCoy’s historical fiction captures the resilience of women across time, blending rich cultural tapestries with emotional depth. From her army-brat childhood to her acclaimed novels like The Baker’s Daughter, she’s a literary force who invites readers to explore the past with fresh eyes.
Born in Fort Knox, Kentucky, McCoy’s global upbringing as the daughter of an army officer and a Puerto Rican schoolteacher shaped her unique perspective. Her stories, infused with themes of identity and belonging, resonate with readers worldwide, earning her a devoted following and critical praise.
The Making of Sarah McCoy
Sarah McCoy’s journey to becoming a beloved author began in a whirlwind of military moves across Germany, Maryland, Kansas, and Virginia. Surrounded by diverse cultures, she found solace in libraries, penning her first ‘book’—a tulip-adorned ode to her parents—as a preschooler. At Virginia Tech, she majored in journalism and public relations, but her heart leaned toward fiction. After a stint in corporate PR, McCoy pursued an MFA at Old Dominion University, where her debut novel, The Time It Snowed in Puerto Rico, took root as her thesis. This bold leap into storytelling marked the start of a remarkable career.
Sarah McCoy’s Unforgettable Stories
McCoy’s novels are a masterclass in historical fiction, often weaving dual narratives that bridge past and present. The Baker’s Daughter (2012), a Goodreads Choice Award nominee, intertwines a WWII German baker’s moral dilemmas with a modern-day journalist’s quest for truth in Texas. Its vivid characters and ethical questions made it a book club favorite. The Mapmaker’s Children (2015) explores abolitionist John Brown’s daughter, Sarah, using art to aid the Underground Railroad, connecting her legacy to a contemporary woman’s struggles.
In Marilla of Green Gables (2018), McCoy reimagines the youth of Anne Shirley’s adoptive mother, crafting a poignant tale of love, loss, and abolitionist courage on Prince Edward Island. Her latest, Mustique Island (2022), dives into the 1970s Caribbean, following a divorcée navigating glamour and scandal. McCoy’s style—lush, empathetic, and meticulously researched—brings history to life, often highlighting unsung women who shape their eras.
Her work extends to novellas like ‘The Branch of Hazel’ in the WWII anthology Grand Central, showcasing her versatility. McCoy’s ability to blend historical accuracy with emotional resonance sets her apart, earning accolades from authors like Kristin Hannah and Adriana Trigiani.
Why Sarah McCoy Matters
Sarah McCoy’s impact lies in her gift for illuminating forgotten corners of history through women’s voices. Her novels challenge readers to confront timeless issues—identity, courage, and justice—while celebrating human resilience. By teaching at universities, hosting NPR’s ‘Bookmarked with Sarah McCoy,’ and supporting literacy through Bookmarks, she’s nurtured a vibrant literary community. Her stories, translated internationally, bridge cultures and generations, proving history’s lessons are never far from today’s heart.
- Born: 1980, Fort Knox, Kentucky
- Key Works: The Baker’s Daughter, Marilla of Green Gables, The Mapmaker’s Children, Mustique Island
- Awards: Goodreads Choice Award nominee (2012), USA Today and New York Times bestseller
- Fun Fact: She lives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with her husband, dog Gilly, and cat Tutu.
Ready to lose yourself in a world where history sings? Snag The Baker’s Daughter or Marilla of Green Gables and dive into Sarah McCoy’s captivating historical fiction!