Picture a New Jersey storyteller who turned dragons and Pokémon into beloved adventures for kids—meet Tracey West! With over 400 books to her name, West is a powerhouse in children’s literature, weaving tales that spark imagination and courage in young readers. Her New York Times bestselling Dragon Masters series has become a global sensation, proving that a good story can make any kid feel like a hero.
From her early days as an editorial assistant to becoming a full-time author, West’s journey is a testament to passion and creativity. Let’s dive into her world, where dragons soar, and every page holds a new adventure!
The Making of Tracey West
Born on October 1, 1965, in New Jersey, Tracey West grew up with a love for stories. After earning a degree from Rutgers University, she started as an editorial assistant, honing her knack for crafting engaging narratives. Her big break came with a spooky children’s book, Great Uncle Dracula, written under the pseudonym Jayne Harvey with friends Bonnie and Lisa. This led to writing Pokémon adaptations, a gig that launched her into the world of children’s literature.
West’s early career was fueled by her ability to adapt popular franchises, but her heart lay in creating original stories. Inspired by her love for fantasy and adventure, she began crafting her own worlds, setting the stage for her iconic Dragon Masters series.
Tracey West’s Unforgettable Stories
West’s bibliography is a treasure trove of over 400 titles, ranging from tie-ins for Pokémon, SpongeBob SquarePants, and LEGO Ninjago to original series that shine with her unique voice. Her New York Times bestselling Dragon Masters series, part of Scholastic’s Branches line, is a standout, following young Dragon Masters like Drake as they bond with dragons and embark on thrilling quests. With accessible vocabulary, fast-paced plots, and illustrations by artists like Graham Howells, the series captivates readers aged 7–10.
Other notable works include the Pixie Tricks series, where mischievous fairies create magical chaos, and the Underdogs series, co-created with Kyla May, celebrating teamwork and perseverance. West’s style blends humor, heart, and adventure, making complex themes like friendship and bravery accessible to young readers. Her novelization of Penguins of Madagascar even earned a 2015 Scribe Award nomination, showcasing her versatility.
West’s latest venture, the Dragon Hill series, launched in October 2025, introduces younger readers (ages 4–7) to the Dragon Masters universe with Ember the Fire Dragon and Gus the Mushroom Dragon. Her ability to tailor stories for different ages keeps her work fresh and engaging.
Why Tracey West Matters
Tracey West’s impact on children’s literature is undeniable. Her books have sold millions, inspiring a love for reading in countless kids. The Dragon Masters series, with over 30 books and counting, has become a classroom staple, boosting confidence in newly independent readers. Teachers praise its pacing and illustrations, while kids adore the magical world of dragons and wizards.
Beyond her stories, West and her husband, Bill, run the Dragon Wagon, a mobile bookstore serving their rural Catskill Mountains community. By giving free books to kids, they spread the joy of reading, proving West’s commitment to literacy and imagination. Her legacy is one of adventure, accessibility, and heart.
- Born: October 1, 1965, New Jersey
- Key Works: Dragon Masters, Pixie Tricks, Underdogs, Pokémon adaptations
- Awards: 2015 Scribe Award nomination for Penguins of Madagascar
- Fun Fact: Lives in New York’s Catskill Mountains with rescue dogs and chickens
Ready to soar with dragons or giggle with pixies? Grab Rise of the Earth Dragon from the Dragon Masters series and dive into Tracey West’s magical world!