Karen Hesse is a renowned American author known for her remarkable contributions to children's and young adult literature. She often writes with historical settings, bringing to life different eras and complex themes. Hesse's body of work includes the Newbery Medal-winning novel, Out of the Dust (1997), which chronicles the experiences of a young girl during the Dust Bowl in the Great Depression.

Other notable works by Hesse include Witness (2001), which explores the rise of the Ku Klux Klan in 1920s Vermont, and The Music of Dolphins (1996), a poignant tale about a girl raised by dolphins. Hesse has also authored Stowaway (2000), based on a real-life 18th-century adventure aboard Captain Cook’s Endeavour.

Throughout her career, Hesse has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship in 2002 and the Phoenix Award for Letters from Rifka (1992). Her works are celebrated for their emotional depth, historical accuracy, and the ability to engage readers of all ages. She has a profound talent for portraying resilience and the human spirit through her characters.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Hesse spent her childhood immersed in the vibrant narratives of her city. She pursued higher education at Towson State College and the University of Maryland, graduating with a B.A. in English and minors in Psychology and Anthropology. Currently residing in Vermont, Hesse continues to inspire readers worldwide with her stories and insights.