Picture an American storyteller who turned a creepy childhood mystery into a thrilling career—meet Sheryl Scarborough! This award-winning author and children’s television writer has captivated young adult readers with her Erin Blake series, blending forensic science with heart-pounding mysteries. From her Washington state home, Scarborough crafts stories that keep you guessing, proving that real-life intrigue can spark extraordinary fiction.
The Making of Sheryl Scarborough
Sheryl Scarborough’s journey to becoming a mystery maven began with a chilling childhood experience. At twelve, her home was targeted by a Peeping Tom, prompting young Sheryl to photograph footprints and collect candy wrappers as evidence. Though the culprit was never caught, this sparked a lifelong obsession with forensics and solving puzzles. Growing up immersed in theater, thanks to her actress mother, Scarborough developed a flair for storytelling. She honed her craft with an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts, setting the stage for her diverse writing career.
Before novels, Scarborough made her mark in children’s television, writing for shows like Kim Possible, Doug, and Tiny Toon Adventures. Her work spanned TV scripts, comic books, and even a celebrity ghostwriting gig, showcasing her versatility. This rich background infused her storytelling with a playful yet gripping style, perfect for her leap into young adult mysteries.
Sheryl Scarborough’s Unforgettable Stories
Scarborough’s Erin Blake series is her crowning achievement, starting with To Catch a Killer (2017). This debut novel introduces Erin Blake, a teen forensic enthusiast haunted by her mother’s unsolved murder. When her biology teacher is killed, Erin uses her sleuthing skills to unravel a web of clues, blending science with suspense. Critics praised its Veronica Mars-esque vibe, with Booklist calling it an “intense, engrossing debut” full of red herrings.
The sequel, To Right the Wrongs (2018), follows Erin as she tackles another cold case tied to her boyfriend Journey’s imprisoned father. Scarborough’s knack for weaving personal stakes—like Erin’s quest for identity—with forensic intrigue shines here. Both novels feature quirky sidekicks, Spam and Lysa, adding humor and heart to the high-stakes plots. Her writing style, infused with forensic details and relatable teen dynamics, appeals to mystery fans and aspiring scientists alike.
Beyond the series, Scarborough co-authored the Tesla Model 3 User’s Guide, showcasing her ability to pivot to unexpected genres. Her stories often explore themes of family, identity, and the power of truth, reflecting her own experiences of piecing together life’s mysteries.
Why Sheryl Scarborough Matters
Sheryl Scarborough’s impact lies in her ability to make forensic science accessible and thrilling for young readers. The Erin Blake series inspires teens, especially girls, to explore STEM fields through Erin’s passion for evidence and problem-solving. Her nomination for New Hampshire’s One School, One Book program, where over 500 students engaged with To Catch a Killer, underscores her influence in educational settings. Scarborough’s blend of true-crime fascination and heartfelt storytelling has carved a niche in young adult literature, encouraging readers to embrace curiosity and resilience.
Her transition from a childhood mystery to a celebrated author also serves as a testament to the power of turning personal experiences into art. By channeling her Peeping Tom encounter into a career, Scarborough shows how adversity can fuel creativity, resonating with aspiring writers and sleuths.
- Key Works: To Catch a Killer, To Right the Wrongs, Tesla Model 3 User’s Guide
- Education: MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts
- Awards: Notable children’s television writing credits
- Residence: Kalama, Washington
Ready to dive into a twisty mystery? Snag To Catch a Killer and unravel the secrets of Sheryl Scarborough’s thrilling world!