Picture a storyteller who unearthed the forgotten tales of America’s past, blending history with heart—meet Sherry A. Burton! This acclaimed American author has enchanted readers with her meticulously crafted historical fiction, particularly through the award-winning Orphan Train Saga and the supernatural-infused Jerry McNeal Series. With a knack for breathing life into overlooked histories, Burton’s stories weave resilience, love, and the extraordinary into the fabric of the ordinary.
From her home in Michigan, Burton doesn’t just write—she resurrects the past, earning accolades like the Charles Loring Brace Award for her dedication to historical accuracy. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this remarkable wordsmith.
The Making of Sherry A. Burton
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Sherry A. Burton grew up in the small town of Fairdale, where her storytelling roots took hold. Married to her best friend, a retired Navy veteran, for over forty years, Burton’s life is a testament to love and partnership. Her writing journey began unexpectedly, sparked by a promise to craft a happy ending for a friend. That pledge ignited a passion, and soon, the voices in her head—her characters—took over, guiding her pen. After years in Kentucky, Burton and her husband settled in Michigan to be near family, where she now writes from a cherry-desk-adorned office, her dog Murdoc by her side.
Sherry A. Burton’s Unforgettable Stories
Burton’s Orphan Train Saga, an 18-book historical fiction series, is her magnum opus. Kicking off with Discovery in 2018, the saga chronicles the lives of children aboard the Orphan Trains, which relocated over 250,000 children from New York and Boston to new homes between 1854 and 1929. Each book follows a child’s journey, blending fictional tales with historical truths. Discovery, for instance, traces Mileta’s transformation into Mildred, a story of love and loss that’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Burton’s commitment to accuracy earned her the Charles Loring Brace Award in 2022, a nod to her vivid portrayal of this overlooked chapter of American history.
Then there’s the Jerry McNeal Series, a paranormal cozy mystery saga that’s as gripping as it is charming. Launched with Always Faithful in 2019, it follows Pennsylvania State Trooper Jerry McNeal, whose psychic “feelings” and ghostly K-9 partner, Gunter, lead him through thrilling adventures. Ghostly Guidance, the second installment, sees Jerry navigating premonitions and a spectral dog in Savannah. Burton’s style shines here—clean, engaging, and laced with warmth, making her books perfect for readers aged 9 to 99.
Burton also dabbles in romance and psychological thrillers, like Tears of Betrayal and Surviving the Storm, showcasing her versatility. Her prose is accessible yet evocative, balancing historical depth with emotional resonance, ensuring readers feel every triumph and tear.
Why Sherry A. Burton Matters
Sherry A. Burton’s work transcends entertainment—she’s a keeper of history. Through the Orphan Train Saga, she ensures the stories of thousands of children aren’t forgotten, earning endorsements from the National Orphan Train Complex. Her lectures at libraries and schools spread this history further, inspiring readers young and old. The Jerry McNeal Series, meanwhile, offers a unique blend of paranormal intrigue and heart, proving Burton’s ability to captivate across genres. Her awards and membership in the National Orphan Train Society underscore her impact, but it’s her readers’ love—evident in emails from kids as young as nine—that truly defines her legacy.
- Birthplace: Louisville, Kentucky
- Key Works: Orphan Train Saga (Discovery, Shameless, Treachery, Loyal), Jerry McNeal Series (Always Faithful, Ghostly Guidance)
- Awards: Charles Loring Brace Award (2022)
- Fun Fact: Burton’s dog Murdoc joins her at her Michigan office!
Snag Discovery or Always Faithful and dive into Sherry A. Burton’s captivating blend of history and heart today!