Patricia A. McKillip

Patricia Anne McKillip is a highly acclaimed American author, best known for her work in the fantasy and science fiction genres. She was born in Salem, Oregon, on Leap Day 1948 and grew up in England, Germany, and Oregon. McKillip received a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1971 and a Master of Arts in 1973 from San Jose State University. She currently resides in Oregon with her husband, David Lunde, a poet.

McKillip's writing is known for its lyrical and delicate prose, with a strong emphasis on characterization and attention to detail. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the World Fantasy Award, the Locus Award, and the Mythopoeic Award. In 2008, she received the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement. Many of her recent novels feature cover paintings by Kinuko Y. Craft.

McKillip's stories often take place in a setting reminiscent of the Middle Ages, complete with forests, castles, lords, and minstrels. She has a knack for placing her characters in situations involving mysterious powers and unknown ancestry, adding an element of intrigue and suspense to her work. Music often plays a significant role in McKillip's writing, and she frequently explores themes of family and love, highlighting the complexities and disagreements that can arise within families.

In addition to her work as a novelist, McKillip has also published several collections of short stories, including "Dreams of Distant Shores" and "Wonders of the Invisible World." These collections showcase her versatility as a writer and her ability to craft compelling and memorable stories in a variety of formats. With her unique voice and distinctive style, McKillip has established herself as one of the most respected and admired authors in the fantasy and science fiction genres.