Patricia C. Wrede

Patricia C. Wrede is a renowned American author, well-known for her contributions to the genre of young adult fantasy novels. She was born in Chicago, Illinois and is the eldest of five children. Wrede's interest in writing began in seventh grade, and she pursued this interest with dedication, eventually becoming a successful author. She attended Carleton College in Minnesota, where she majored in Biology and managed to avoid taking any English courses. This focus on the natural sciences, rather than literature, is somewhat unusual for a successful author, but Wrede's passion for writing shone through regardless.

After graduating from Carleton College, Wrede began work on her first novel, Shadow Magic, just after graduating from college in 1974. She finished it five years later and became permanently hooked on writing. Wrede's career as an author evolved while she was working as a financial analyst and accountant for several organizations, including the Minnesota Hospital Association, B. Dalton Booksellers, and the Dayton Hudson Corporation headquarters. Despite her demanding career, Wrede's passion for writing never waned. In January 1980, she founded the Scribblies with Pamela Dean, Emma Bull, Will Shetterly, Steven Brust, and Nate Bucklin. This writer's group provided Wrede with a supportive community of like-minded individuals who shared her passion for writing.

Wrede's first novel, Sorcery and Cecelia or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot, was published in 1982, and she has since written numerous other novels, including The Grand Tour, coauthored with Caroline Stevermer, and the Enchanted Forest Chronicles. Wrede's work has been highly praised for its creativity, humor, and engaging characters. She is known for her intricate plotlines and imaginative world-building, which have captivated readers for decades.

Wrede received her MBA from the University of Minnesota in 1977 and currently resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is a vegetarian and shares her home with her cat, Karma. Wrede has no children but is a beloved author to many, having inspired countless young readers to explore the magical worlds of fantasy literature. Her contributions to the genre have left an indelible mark, and her work continues to delight and entertain readers of all ages.