Picture an Oregon educator spinning tales of supernatural sleuthing that blend Sherlock Holmes’ wit with Doctor Who’s whimsy—meet William Ritter! A New York Times bestselling author, Ritter captivates readers with his Jackaby series, where historical fiction meets magical mystery. His knack for crafting eerie, enchanting worlds has earned him a devoted following, all while he inspires high school students by day.
The Making of William Ritter
Born in a town shrouded in playful mystery—possibly Oregon or mythical Maltese catacombs—William Ritter grew up in a home where stories came alive. His parents, champions of creativity, read aloud with vibrant voices, igniting his love for storytelling. At the University of Oregon, Ritter’s eclectic studies in juggling, trampoline, and seventeenth-century Italian longsword fueled his imaginative flair. Degrees in English and education, paired with certifications in folklore and creative writing, set the stage for his literary journey.
Ritter’s writing began in the quiet of midnight feedings for his newborn son, Jack, whose nickname inspired the Jackaby series. Teaching high school language arts, including mythology and heroes, Ritter honed his ability to craft narratives that resonate with young readers, blending academic rigor with fantastical fun.
William Ritter’s Unforgettable Stories
Ritter’s debut, Jackaby (2014), introduces R.F. Jackaby, a quirky detective of the supernatural, and Abigail Rook, his keen-eyed assistant, in 1892 New England. Praised as “Sherlock Holmes crossed with Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” the novel weaves mystery with paranormal flair. Its sequels—Beastly Bones (2015), Ghostly Echoes (2016), and The Dire King (2017)—deepen the series’ blend of folklore and suspense.
The Oddmire series, starting with Changeling (2019), targets younger readers with a tale of twin brothers—one human, one goblin—on a magical quest. Books like The Unready Queen (2020) and Deepest, Darkest (2021) explore family and identity against a backdrop of enchanted forests. Ritter’s standalone Rook (2023) revisits Abigail’s adventures, while Bloody Fool for Love (2022), a Buffy prequel, showcases his versatility.
Ritter’s style is a tapestry of vivid characters, witty dialogue, and mythological depth. His stories, rich with historical and supernatural elements, invite readers into worlds where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, reflecting his love for folklore and adventure.
Why William Ritter Matters
William Ritter’s impact lies in his ability to make the fantastical feel real, inspiring readers to embrace curiosity and courage. His Jackaby series has landed on state reading lists and garnered glowing reviews for its genre-blending brilliance. As an educator, Ritter fosters creativity in his students, encouraging them to find their own stories. His advocacy against book piracy highlights his commitment to supporting diverse, struggling authors, amplifying marginalized voices in literature.
Ritter’s legacy is one of connection—between history and fantasy, teacher and student, parent and child. His stories, born from late-night musings and a passion for myth, continue to spark wonder in readers worldwide.
- Born: Exact date unavailable, likely in his 30s during Jackaby’s 2014 release
- Key Works: Jackaby series, Oddmire series, Rook, Bloody Fool for Love
- Notable: New York Times bestselling author, Oregon educator
Snag Jackaby or Changeling and dive into William Ritter’s spellbinding blend of mystery and magic!