Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of wizards, mythical lands, and nature’s magic—meet T.A. Barron! Born in 1952, Barron is the mastermind behind the beloved Merlin Saga, a series that whisks readers into the enchanting world of a young Merlin. With a knack for blending heroism, fantasy, and environmental themes, Barron’s stories captivate young readers and inspire a love for the natural world.
From his Colorado roots to his global impact, Barron’s journey is as epic as his novels. His writing doesn’t just entertain—it sparks imagination and champions the idea that anyone can be a hero, especially when it comes to protecting our planet.
The Making of T.A. Barron
Growing up on a Colorado ranch, T.A. Barron was surrounded by wide-open spaces that fueled his love for nature. As a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, he dove into literature and mythology, planting the seeds for his future stories. Initially, Barron took a detour into the business world, even becoming president of a company. But in 1990, he made a bold move: he left it all behind to chase his dream of writing. That leap of faith led to a career that’s touched millions.
Barron’s early struggles to publish his first novel didn’t deter him. Inspired by his love for storytelling and the environment, he carved out a unique niche, blending fantasy with ecological messages. His determination paid off, and he’s now celebrated as a luminary in children’s and young adult literature.
T.A. Barron’s Unforgettable Stories
Barron’s Merlin Saga, a 13-book epic, is his crown jewel. Originally published as three series—The Lost Years of Merlin, Merlin’s Dragon, and The Great Tree of Avalon—it follows a young Merlin’s journey from a shipwrecked boy to the legendary wizard. Packed with mythical creatures and lush settings, the series has sold millions and is being adapted into a Disney film. The 2021 prequel, GIANT, adds depth to the saga with the story of Shim, a young giant on a quest.
Another gem, The Ancient One, tells the tale of a brave girl and a magical tree, weaving environmental themes into a gripping adventure. Barron’s nonfiction work, The Hero’s Trail, celebrates real-life young heroes, echoing his belief in the power of youth. His writing style—vivid, heartfelt, and steeped in nature—earned praise from authors like Madeleine L’Engle, who called his stories “a crescendo of miracles.”
Barron’s tales often feature mythical settings where nature is a character, not just a backdrop. His podcast, Magic & Mountains, further explores these themes, diving into Merlin’s magic, creative writing, and the wonders of the natural world with guests like Jane Goodall.
Why T.A. Barron Matters
T.A. Barron’s impact goes beyond his books. His stories inspire young readers to embrace their inner hero and care for the environment. Through the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes, founded in 2001, he honors kids making a difference, from conservationists to community leaders. His documentary, Dream Big, showcases these young trailblazers, earning a 2020 Telly Award.
Barron’s philanthropy shines in his environmental efforts. He’s created scholarships at Harvard and UC Santa Barbara, supported Princeton’s Environmental Institute, and founded programs like the Youth in Wilderness initiative at The Wilderness Society, which honored him with the Robert Marshall Award. His work reminds us that storytelling can spark change, making him a beacon in fantasy and conservation.
- Born: 1952 in Colorado, USA
- Key Works: Merlin Saga, The Ancient One, The Hero’s Trail
- Awards: de Grummond Medallion, Nautilus Award, Robert Marshall Award
- Fun Fact: He’s a passionate hiker and skier!
About T.A. Barron
Ready to embark on a magical adventure? Snag The Lost Years of Merlin and dive into T.A. Barron’s spellbinding fantasy world!