Margi Preus is a highly acclaimed children's author, best known for her Newbery Honor-winning book, Heart of a Samurai. Preus' writing career took off in an unexpected way when a kindergarten audition for a play did not go as planned. This event, however, marked the beginning of her prolific writing journey. Since then, she has penned nearly a bazillion plays and a vast number of books.
Preus' work has received considerable recognition in the literary world. In addition to winning the Newbery Honor for Heart of a Samurai, she also received the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature for the same book. Her books have been well-received by critics and readers alike, earning spots on many "best of" lists and receiving multiple awards. Preus' other notable works include The Bamboo Sword, West of the Moon, Enchantment Lake, and Shadow on the Mountain. These books have been translated into several languages and have even been featured on NPR.
Beyond her writing, Preus is an accomplished speaker and enjoys visiting schools worldwide. Her passion for storytelling extends beyond the page, as she engages with audiences and inspires young readers and writers. Preus' dedication to her craft and her ability to create engaging and thought-provoking stories have solidified her place as a respected and celebrated author in the world of children's literature.