Kelly Barnhill is an American author of fantasy fiction for children and young adults. She grew up in Minnesota and worked as a teacher and waitress before turning to writing full-time. Her breakthrough came with The Girl Who Drank the Moon in 2016, which won the Newbery Medal the following year.
Barnhill’s novels blend fairy tale elements with original world-building and emotionally complex characters. Her stories often explore themes of memory, love, and the power of stories themselves. She has also written short fiction for adults, published in various fantasy and science fiction magazines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kelly Barnhill best known for?
Kelly Barnhill is best known for The Girl Who Drank the Moon, which won the 2017 Newbery Medal. The novel tells the story of a witch who accidentally raises a child with extraordinary magic and has become a modern classic in children’s fantasy.
What age group does Kelly Barnhill write for?
Kelly Barnhill primarily writes middle-grade fantasy for readers ages 8-12, though her books appeal to adults as well. Her novels feature young protagonists facing magical challenges with themes of love, identity, and finding one’s place in the world.
Are Kelly Barnhill books standalone or series?
Most of Kelly Barnhill’s novels are standalones, including The Girl Who Drank the Moon and The Ogre’s Daughter. Each book tells a complete story in its own fantasy world, making them accessible entry points for new readers.