Joan Hiatt Harlow weaves stories that transport the reader back to a time when characters confronted and resolved their problems minus today's technology-driven chaos.
Childhood in New England
Mrs. Harlow was born and raised in New England, and her stories reflect the geography and essence and ideals of her childhood. According to her website, Harlow's father was a prominent singer. She writes, "Ever since I learned to read (at the age of four) I wanted to be a writer." Her mother would tell her stories about Newfoundland, where she was born. In addition, her grandmother gave her books that were considered classics.
Star in the Storm
Harlow's first published novel, Star in the Storm, is set in Newfoundland in the early 1900's. It highlights a Newfoundland dog called Sirius and a girl named Maggie. Sirius has a large white star on his chest and makes Maggie proud with his heroics. This well-written novel won Harlow the Henry Bergh ASPCA award, the Disney Award, and several others.
Thunder From the Sea
Harlow continued to make magic with her next book, Thunder from the Sea. Also set in Newfoundland, this story features another Newfoundland pup. He is rescued by a boy named Tom, and together boy and dog make their way valiantly into the reader's heart. It is a wonderful follow-up to her award-winning first novel.
Midnight Rider
Harlow enjoys writing historical fiction and it shows. Her book, Midnight Rider, is set in 1775 Boston and is, like all of her work, thoroughly researched and detailed. It gives the reader a genuine sense of what life was like in the company of Paul Revere and the Sons of Liberty. She draws an engaging picture of dramatic feuds between the Whigs and the Tories that is easy to digest. The main character, Hannah, is a 14 year old with a magnificent horse named Promise.
Secret of the Night Ponies
Harlow’s latest book, Secret of the Night Ponies, has just been released. As with her previous books, it falls into the middle grade (9-14) range and is sure to be a success. Once again she employs Newfoundland animals to tell another tale of intrigue and the all-important relationship between children and animals.
Joan Hiatt Harlow has been able to live out a dream that began in the early years of her life. Clearly a woman of conviction and compassion, she continues to delight readers of all ages with stories that entertain and encourage one’s best thinking.
Sources:
Harlow, Joan Hiatt. Midnight Rider. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks, 2005. Star in the Storm and Thunder from the Sea, 2001 and 2004, respectively.
Joan Hiatt Harlow Website
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