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Karen Cushman facts for kids

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Karen Cushman
Cushman at the 2016 Texas Book Festival
Cushman at the 2016 Texas Book Festival
Born (1941-10-04) October 4, 1941 (age 83)
Chicago, Illinois, US
Occupation Writer
Alma mater Stanford University
Genre Young adult historical novels
Notable works
Notable awards Newbery Medal
1996

Karen Cushman, born on October 4, 1941, is a talented American writer. She is famous for her historical fiction novels. These are stories set in the past, often with characters who lived long ago.

About Karen Cushman's Writing Journey

Karen Cushman has written many popular books for young readers. Her stories often take you back in time. She studied at Stanford University and earned degrees in Greek and English. She also has master's degrees in human behavior and museum studies. Before becoming a full-time writer in 1996, she taught museum studies for eleven years. Today, she lives and writes on Vashon Island in Washington state.

Award-Winning Books

Two of Karen Cushman's most well-known books have won major awards. Her novel The Midwife's Apprentice received the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1996. This award is given to the author of the most outstanding American book for children. Her book Catherine, Called Birdy was also recognized with a Newbery Honor in 1995.

Karen Cushman's Books

Here is a list of the historical novels Karen Cushman has written:

  • Catherine, Called Birdy (1994)
  • The Midwife's Apprentice (1995)
  • The Ballad of Lucy Whipple (1996)
  • Matilda Bone (2000)
  • Rodzina (2004)
  • The Loud Silence of Francine Green (2006)
  • Alchemy and Meggy Swann (2010)
  • Will Sparrow's Road (2012)
  • Grayling's Song (2016)
  • War and Millie McGonigle (2021)
  • When Sally O'Malley Discovered the Sea (2025)

Books on Screen

Some of Karen Cushman's books have been turned into movies or TV shows.

  • The Ballad of Lucy Whipple became a TV film in 2001.
  • Catherine Called Birdy was made into a movie in 2022. You can learn more about it at Catherine Called Birdy (film).

Awards and Recognitions

Karen Cushman has received several awards for her wonderful books:

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