by T. A. Barron | Dec 9, 2021 | Blog, For Young Heroes, Free Downloads, Heroes, Quests
A New Quest for Young Heroes: Solving World Hunger In a time usually known as a time of abundance, we often forget about the problems that so many of our fellow humans face: food insecurity. Imagine having to make a choice between food or life-saving medicine,...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 28, 2021 | Articles & Interviews, Featured, For Educators, Inspiration, Interviews, Merlin Saga, Writing & Creativity
T.A. Barron: From Colorado to Camelot by Teague Bohlen Westword October 28, 2021 Original Article...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 28, 2021 | Articles & Interviews, Featured, For Educators, Heroes, Interviews, Merlin Saga, Nature, Writing & Creativity
A Giant Interview with T. A. Barron by Elizabeth Bird A Fuse #8 Production An SLJ.com Blog October 28, 2021 Original Article | PDF Years and years ago, a fine fellow by the name of Tom (or T. A.) Barron took me to the Bemelman’s Bar in the Carlyle Hotel in New York...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 28, 2021 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
GIANT EXCERPT BIG FEET “Seventeen boulders!” crowed the midwife Gargolyn. Though she herself was a giant, she strained to lift the squirming baby in her hands. “That’s a hefty weight for a newlyborn, even for a giant.” Turning slowly in the sunlight, Gargolyn observed...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 26, 2021 | Articles & Interviews, Merlin Saga
The Long-Awaited Prequel to the Bestselling Saga is Here… Boulder, CO October 26, 2021 PDF ★ “Shim is a wonderfully relatable character imparting a message of empathy that should resonate long after the last page turns. Simply delightful.” – Kirkus, STARRED REVIEW...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 20, 2021 | Blog, Books, Merlin, On Reading, Writing & Creativity
GIANT Virtual Book Tour I’m thrilled to announce that my latest book, GIANT: The Unlikely Origins of Shim, a prequel to the Merlin Saga featuring Shim, is coming to bookstores everywhere on October 26th. In honor of this magical opening to a story that means so...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 12, 2021 | Articles & Interviews, Merlin Saga
T. A. Barron Unveils Redesigned, Interactive Website Boulder, COOctober 12, 2021PDF NEW WEBSITE FOR BESTSELLING AUTHOR & CONSERVATIONIST OFFERS ELEMENTS FOR READERS, EDUCATORS AND NATURE LOVERS ALIKE T. A. Barron, the award-winning and New York Times bestselling...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 1, 2021 | Blog, For Young Heroes, Free Downloads, Heroes, Inspiration, Quests
Introducing Quests for Young Heroes Nature is my great friend, wise teacher, and true healer, as well as my enduring inspiration. That is why I am thrilled to announce a brand new series on the website: Quests. It is my hope that by embarking upon these quests, young...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 1, 2021 | Blog, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration
Tapping Into the Heroic Potential of Every Child I’m often asked why I chose to write about the early years of the great wizard, Merlin. What really made me fall in love with stories of young Merlin was the realization that Merlin, the original wizard and the...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 20, 2021 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, News
Congratulations to the 2021 Barron Prize Winners! Each year, the Barron Prize awards outstanding young people whose personal stories and service work act as inspiring examples of the power we all have to make the world better. During a most difficult time in our...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 28, 2021 | Blog, Inspiration, On Reading, Writing & Creativity
The Power of Stories Writers have a special power — the power of stories. Authors, at their very core, are storytellers. When we publish a book, we invite readers into a different world and tell them about what they’ll find there. Storytelling is an art form...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 21, 2021 | Blog, Fantasy, Inspiration, On Reading
The Magic of Reading What makes a book ‘worth reading’, to me? I read everything that interests me … which is quite a lot! Of course, I’m extremely fond of great nature writing, but I have long loved biographies of amazing people, and...
by T. A. Barron | May 25, 2021 | Blog, Inspiration, Writing & Creativity
One Step Closer to Your Dream “A life — whether seamstress or poet, farmer or king — is measured not by its length, but by the worth of its deeds, and the power of its dreams.” — MERLIN: The Mirror of Fate To be a writer has always been my dream. My first creations,...
by T. A. Barron | May 20, 2021 | Book Excerpt, Nature Book Excerpts
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK EXCERPT The Gift of Enos Mills By T. A. Barron Downloadable PDF When Enos Mills returned to his homestead cabin one day in the late nineteenth century, he sat on his porch and gazed across the valley at the towering ridges of Mount Meeker...
by T. A. Barron | May 20, 2021 | Book Excerpt, Nature Book Excerpts
TO WALK IN WILDERNESS EXCERPT From Day 3 Rain, relentless rain. The downpour at Little Gem Lake continues unabated all through the night and well into the next day. At times fog rolls in, so thick that the ground a few feet outside our sopping tent becomes nothing...
by T. A. Barron | May 13, 2021 | Book Excerpt
THE WISDOM OF MERLIN EXCERPT Courage Courage is essential. How else can we dream of who we can become and what we want for the world? And it also takes courage to turn those dreams into reality. You see, life can have great meaning—but only if we discover that meaning...
by T. A. Barron | May 6, 2021 | Adventures of Kate Excerpts, Book Excerpt
THE MERLIN EFFECT EXCERPT Farther from shore, nearer to death. With every pull of her paddle, Kate recalled the much-repeated warning about these waters. Yet today felt different. Today the sea looked tranquil, even inviting. Her arms, brown after almost a month in...
by T. A. Barron | May 6, 2021 | Adventures of Kate Excerpts, Book Excerpt
HEARTLIGHT EXCERPT Kate spun around when she heard the crash. “Cumberland!” The golden retriever had Grandfather pinned on the kitchen floor. She dashed over and pulled the dog away, but not before he gave his victim one last slobbery kiss....
by T. A. Barron | May 5, 2021 | Book Excerpt, the Atlantis Saga Excerpts
ATLANTIS LOST EXCERPT 1 A Gentle Wing Music had always filled her thoughts—even before she was born. During all her months in her mother’s womb, Omarya heard music everywhere. Songs hummed in her still-forming ears, danced to the cadence of her mother’s heartbeat, and...
by T. A. Barron | May 5, 2021 | Book Excerpt, the Atlantis Saga Excerpts
ATLANTIS IN PERIL EXCERPT 1 Revenge Far, far away from the isle of Atlantis . . . something stirred in a place where no creature had ever stirred before. That place, in the most remote reaches of the spirit realm, was a bottomless pit darker than the darkest void....
by T. A. Barron | May 5, 2021 | Book Excerpt, the Atlantis Saga Excerpts
ATLANTIS RISING EXCERPT A Distant Melody That morning, you had no idea of all the momentous changes to come. Very soon, you learned. And then you traded your life and everything you ever loved for that little bit of magic—a truly terrible price. And I am to blame for...
by T. A. Barron | May 5, 2021 | Adventures of Kate Excerpts, Book Excerpt
THE ANCIENT ONE EXCERPT First, God created Rain. Then Drizzle. Then Mist, then Fog. And then: More Rain. Kate smiled soggily at her own adaptation of the story of creation, Oregon style. Her sneakers were wet enough that they squelched like sponges as she walked. She...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 27, 2021 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Nature, On Nature & the Environment
Volunteering with Children: 10 Ways to Encourage Kids to Give Back The ability of young people to help change the world for the better has been a source of joy and hope for me for many years. If you’ve ever been a reader of my blog or a follower of my work, you know...
by T. A. Barron | Mar 19, 2021 | Blog, For Nature Lovers, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Nature, On Nature & the Environment
How a Butterfly Can Change the World The Butterfly Effect is one of my favorite concepts. In fact, I’ve even written about the power of a butterfly’s wings in my novel, Heartlight. If you’re unfamiliar with the Butterfly Effect, it is a theory of causality...
by T. A. Barron | Mar 2, 2021 | Blog, For Nature Lovers, Nature, On Nature & the Environment, Writing & Creativity
Nature as a Character Making characters come alive is one of the trickiest but most important elements of writing. Before I start to write, I usually take extensive notes about each character. I then expand that description even further as I get to know them better...
by T. A. Barron | Jan 14, 2021 | Blog, Contests, For Nature Lovers, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Nature, News, On Nature & the Environment
Giving Hope and Giving Back It takes a community to make a difference. In the spirit of Merlin’s magical word, Generosity, last month I hosted the Giving Hope for the Holidays charity contest, where I encouraged my readers to share charities and organizations...
by T. A. Barron | Dec 18, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration
Making a Difference in the World I believe passionately in the power that young people have to change the narrative of the future, and the most powerful step adults can make towards a better tomorrow is to foster that hope and drive in our young people. Making sure...
by T. A. Barron | Nov 17, 2020 | Blog, Inspiration, Personal Writing
Getting the Most out of Gratitude I was once asked by a reader, “If you had to choose a favorite word, which would it be?” As a lover of language, I took this question very seriously! After spending some time thinking it over, I gave my answer: If I had to...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 20, 2020 | Blog, Writing & Creativity
How to Become a Better Writer Using Villains I often receive letters and messages from fans asking for writing advice, and I do my best to point them toward the many resources for writers on my website. But as we move closer to Halloween, I thought I’d offer those...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 22, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Personal Writing
How Do You Spread Kindness? I believe that kindness is an altogether different entity from being nice. The sad truth is that you can be nice out of politeness while still thinking mean thoughts. However, to truly be kind, you must care about your fellow man (or...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 14, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, News
Congratulations to 2020’s Barron Prize Winners! Each year, the Barron Prize awards outstanding young people whose personal stories and service work act as an inspiration example of the power we all have to make the world better. 2020 marks the 20th anniversary...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 9, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Nature, On Nature & the Environment
What is Your Labor of Love? 8 Simple Ideas To Make the World Better What does it mean to be kind? Is it simply about minding your manners and going through the motions? About doing what’s expected of us, and nothing else? Is kindness merely the absence of...
by T. A. Barron | Aug 10, 2020 | Blog, Books, Free Downloads, Inspiration, On Reading, Writing & Creativity
Magical Background Images for your Video Calls Have you been using video chat applications like Zoom to talk to friends and family during this period of social distancing? Perhaps you’ve been dreaming of hosting your very own virtual book club? If so, here are a...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 27, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration
Celebrating Everyday Heroes The heroic people around us may not have super powers — at least, not the kind that allows them to read minds or leap tall buildings — but the qualities they possess and the powers they have to do good are very real. Heroes are people who...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 22, 2020 | About T. A. Barron, Articles & Interviews, Inspiration, Nature, Writing & Creativity
Profile of T. A. Barron for Princeton by Jeff Labreque Princeton Profile 2020 PDF The long walk to the school bus never really bothered Tom Barron ’74. It was a solid mile from his front door to the highway, connected by the dirt road that crossed a creek, wound its...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 6, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Sweepstakes
Heroes Every Day Looking for Something? Search for: CategoriesCategories Select Category Adventures of Kate (1) Adventures of Kate Excerpts (3) Articles (9) Blog (147) Book Excerpt (22) Books (48)...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 23, 2020 | Blog, Books, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Guide to Living Your Best Life Back in 2018 I wrote a blog post which began, “These are dark times. In our country and our world, we’re surrounded by divisiveness, greed, mean-spiritedness, hatred, cynicism, fear, and rage. So much so, the darkness sometimes...
by T. A. Barron | May 4, 2020 | Blog, For Educators, Heroes
Celebrating Educators… Now, More than Ever! Each May during Teacher Appreciation Week, educators across the nation are thanked by students and parents for all the things they do to provide support and guidance within their schools and individual classrooms. And...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 28, 2020 | Blog, Books, For Nature Lovers, Free Downloads, Nature
Tree Girl Activity Sheets Dear Parents, Educators, and Caregivers, These Tree Girl activity worksheets were created as part of my Tree Girl read-along video series to be enjoyed by children of all ages. Each chapter presents something fun and new to learn about or...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 9, 2020 | Blog, For Nature Lovers, Nature, On Nature & the Environment
Seven Ways You can Participate in Earth Day 2020 from Home “Intellectually, we finally have come to understand that the wealth of this nation is its air, water, soil, forests, minerals, rivers, lakes, oceans, scenic beauty, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity. Take...
by T. A. Barron | Mar 26, 2020 | Blog, Books, On Reading, Writing & Creativity
10 Great Stories to Read Right Now I was in my twenties before I discovered and fell in love with J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. A little later in life than many other Tolkien fans, perhaps, but it was absolutely the right time for me — reading his richly...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 25, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE BOOK OF MAGIC EXCERPT Warning to the Reader Pray, take care with this book! You see, it contains the secret journal of the great wizard Merlin. Over the centuries, others contributed their share — while still others sought to capture Merlin’s magic for...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 20, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE ETERNAL FLAME EXCERPT The Unmaking Knife Kulwych’s chortle, while no louder than the thin stream of water trickling down the cavern wall, was unmistakably mirthful. He rubbed his pale white hands together. In the throbbing light of the crystal beside him —...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 20, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE DRAGON OF AVALON EXCERPT One Dark Night A flame vent erupted on the cliffs, blasting the darkness like an angry dragon. Then another. And another. All across the cliffs, among the highest in Fireroot, tongues of fire shot upward, licked the air, then vanished...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 19, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
SHADOWS ON THE STARS EXCERPT The Greatest Power Deep underground, in a cavern of dark shadows, something even darker hovered in the air. Slowly it spun — a venomous snake of smoke. As it twirled, the air around it crackled with black sparks. And wherever its tail...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 18, 2020 | Blog, Inspiration, Personal Writing
It’s Good to be Good — Celebrating Random Acts of Kindness Random Acts of Kindness Week, or ‘RAK Week’ for short, celebrated every February, is all about making small, intentional acts of kindness a part of your routine. But more than that, having an entire week...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 13, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
ULTIMATE MAGIC EXCERPT For a big surprise, I look for a small mystery. Basilgarrad lifted his enormous head, scanning the rolling meadows that reached to the distant trees. His dragon’s eyes glittered as his powerful shoulder muscles tensed. Both of his furled...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 13, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
DOOMRAGA’S REVENGE EXCERPT INOT SO SMALL ANYMORE Having been very small, I can truthfully tell you that size doesn’t matter at all. Except when it does. The wrathful roar exploded—so forcefully it toppled a grove of ironwood trees, emptied a flowing river,...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 12, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE DRAGON OF AVALON EXCERPT The Pebble Look here, I know it sounds far-fetched—impossible, even—that such a huge story could have such a tiny, unremarkable beginning. Call me a liar if you like. But that’s how it was. I know, believe me. Just as I know more...
by T. A. Barron | Jan 13, 2020 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
A WIZARD’S WINGS EXCERPT Wings, take me back! How often have I dreamed, in the centuries since that day, of returning to that place and time, of facing once again the choice that changed everything. Such longing, though, is useless. An idea this is lost may yet...
by T. A. Barron | Dec 21, 2019 | Blog, Books, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Final Magical Word: Love “It’s the most magical word of all. And it’s also the most varied – simple or complex, hidden or revealed, painful or joyous… That word is love.” THE WISDOM OF MERLIN: 7 Magical Words for a Meaningful Life Love is magical. In one or...
by T. A. Barron | Nov 28, 2019 | Blog, Books, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Gratitude At this time of year, the idea of Gratitude — one of Merlin’s most potent magical words — is never far from my mind. After all, with a holiday named “Thanksgiving”, it’s only natural that the holiday season inspires us to recall...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 24, 2019 | About T. A. Barron, Articles & Interviews, Conservation, Featured, Inspiration, Nature, Speeches
Destroy Our Home… Or Restore It Speech at the 25th Anniversary of the Princeton Environmental Institute October 24, 2019 PDF Whenever I give a speech, I think back to the wise words of my good mother… when I was nervously getting ready to give my very first...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 23, 2019 | Blog, Books, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Generosity Generosity, as described by Merlin in The Wisdom of Merlin: 7 Magical Words for a Meaningful Life, is not giving others what they want. Rather, it’s giving away what you yourself want.When you think about very young children...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 16, 2019 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE MIRROR OF FATE EXCERPT Many are the mirrors I have examined; many are the faces I have seen. Yet for all these years — lo, all these centuries — there is but one mirror, with one visage, I cannot forget. It has haunted me from the start, from that very first...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 16, 2019 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, News
Congratulations to 2019’s Barron Prize Winners! Each year, The Barron Prize celebrates outstanding young leaders ages 8 to 18 who have made a significant positive difference to people and the environment. These inspiring, public-spirited young people from across North...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 12, 2019 | Blog, Books, Heroes, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Courage Merlin has been a part of my life for more than 20 years. Though he may be but a mythical being to some, and a great character in an epic story for many more, after more than 12 books devoted to his life and the telling of...
by T. A. Barron | Aug 27, 2019 | Blog, Books, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Belief “Belief is a powerful elixir. It offers strength, renewal, and peace to those who drink it. And your cup can be forever refilled.” Belief, one of Merlin’s seven most magical words in the universe, can give us comfort in times of...
by T. A. Barron | Aug 22, 2019 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE RAGING FIRES EXCERPT Prologue The mists of memory gather, the more with each passing year. Yet one day remains as clear in my mind as this morning’s sunrise, although it happened those many centuries ago. It was a day darkened by mists of its own, and by...
by T. A. Barron | Aug 22, 2019 | About T. A. Barron, Articles, Articles & Interviews, Featured, For Educators, Merlin Saga, Writing & Creativity
Merlin and Me: Thirteen Books Later by T. A. Barron The Horn Book May 2015 Original Article | PDF On a cold Colorado night twenty-one years ago, I woke up suddenly. A vivid dream had possessed me—a dream of a boy, half drowned and only barely alive, who had washed up...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 31, 2019 | Blog, Books, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Hope Hope requires courage. Darkness, despair, anger, destruction—the images of these things feature daily in our media. No matter where we look, we’re met with images that leave us questioning. We’re left feeling hopeless, without...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 31, 2019 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE SEVEN SONGS EXCERPT Prologue How the centuries have flown … Faster, by far, than the brave hawk who once bore me on his back. Faster, indeed, than the arrow of pain that lodged in my heart on the day I lost my mother. Still I can see the Great Council of...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 24, 2019 | Book Excerpt, the Merlin Saga Excerpts
THE LOST YEARS EXCERPT Prologue If I close my eyes, and breathe to the rolling rhythm of the sea, I can still remember that long ago day. Harsh, cold, and lifeless it was, as empty of promise as my lungs were empty of air. Since that day, I have seen many others, more...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 20, 2019 | Blog, Books, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Knowledge “The important thing is not to stop questioning.” —Albert Einstein Knowledge, one of Merlin’s magical words, is so much more than just the things you learn by sitting in a classroom. The truth is, Knowledge is...
by T. A. Barron | May 21, 2019 | Blog, Books, For Educators, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing
Merlin’s Seven Magical Words: Wonder Wonder, one of Merlin’s Seven Magical Words, is more than just something that we stumble upon from time to time. There is intentionality in Wonder, though it is not something you seek. It calls you to question, to...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 17, 2018 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, News
Congratulations to the 2018 Barron Prize Winners Since 2001, The Barron Prize has been awarded to more than 100 young people whose projects make a positive difference in the world. This national award is meant to highlight the idea that every single one of us —...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 30, 2018 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Free Downloads, Heroes, Inspiration
Celebrating Summer Sparks! When you think “summer” you likely think of long lazy days… maybe it puts you in mind of holiday beaches, or fun family camping, or perhaps it simply signals it’s time to shed your winter layers and savor the warm...
by T. A. Barron | May 22, 2018 | About T. A. Barron, Articles & Interviews, Inspiration, Nature, Speeches
Environmental Media Association Reading – May 2018 TAB’s Keynote Speech at EMA Awards EveningMay 22 – Los Angeles, CAPDF We’ve seen many fabulous people – and heard so many fabulous stories! Are you feeling inspired? I sure am! These are the people, the stories,...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 15, 2018 | Blog, Books, For Educators, On Reading, Videos, Writing & Creativity
Celebrating American Sign Language Day On April 15th, 1817 students gathered in Hartford, Connecticut for the opening of the very first school for the Deaf in the U.S. It was here, and at other subsequent Deaf schools across our nation, that students intermingled...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 11, 2018 | Blog, For Nature Lovers, Nature, On Nature & the Environment, Personal Writing, Writing & Creativity
Death, Soft on the Snow In 2017, I wrote this poem to celebrate winter in Colorado. In sharing it with you here, I hope to encourage you to look around and find inspiration from your surroundings. The smallest thing – even a footprint in the snow – can lead to...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 11, 2018 | Articles & Interviews, Inspiration, Speeches, Writing & Creativity
De Grummond Lecture, Hattiesburg – April 11, 2018 Fay B. Kaigler Children’s Book FestivalDe Grummond Lecture – April 11, 2018PDF Wonderful to be back here in Hattiesburg and Southern Miss! There really is Southern Hospitality – I still feel warmth from my...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 2, 2018 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration
Let’s Double Down on Goodness These are dark times. In our country and our world, we’re surrounded by divisiveness, greed, mean-spiritedness, hatred, cynicism, fear, and rage. So much so, the darkness sometimes threatens to cover us all in shadows. That’s why we...
by T. A. Barron | Dec 12, 2017 | Articles & Interviews, Inspiration, Interviews, Writing & Creativity
A Chat With T. A. Barron A Chat between T.A. Barron and J.J. GowDecember 12, 2017 J.J. Gow: How did you come up with the stories and what inspired you to write the books for both Merlin Saga and Atlantis Saga? T. A. Barron: Merlin Saga: Ah, Merlin. How I love that...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 14, 2017 | Articles & Interviews, Conservation, Inspiration, Interviews, Nature, Writing & Creativity
Supporter Profile: Redwoods Inspire Best-Selling Author by Glen Martin Save the Redwoods League Oct 2017 Original Article T. A. Barron, a member of the Save the Redwoods League Council, grew up in rural Colorado, where his connection to nature was immersive and...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 25, 2017 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, News
Outstanding Young Leaders — Introducing the 2017 Barron Prize Winners Real heroes are those who overcome obstacles to make real, positive changes in the world. Their stories help to inspire us with evidence of the power of people just like ourselves who have worked to...
by T. A. Barron | Aug 30, 2017 | Articles, Articles & Interviews, Conservation, Featured, Inspiration, Merlin Saga, Nature, Writing & Creativity
Merlin on the Wind by T. A. Barron National Geographic Traveler Aug 2017 PDF I am thrilled to share this article I wrote for the Aug/Sept 2017 edition of National Geographic Traveler magazine. The article is featured in a section titled “British Accents”...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 19, 2017 | Articles, Articles & Interviews, Inspiration, Merlin Saga, Writing & Creativity
Letters from Members of “The Isle of Fincayra” Fan Site The Isle of Fincayra Fan Site 2017 PDF Recent Posts An Author’s Reflections on the Writer’s Journey Labor of Love: The Birth of Compassionate Intelligence Alaska — Land of Immensity Life Lessons I’ve...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 22, 2017 | Blog, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Nature, On Nature & the Environment
Live Your Life as a Story These remarks were given as part of my address to the graduating class of the University of California Santa Barbara in June 2017. If you folks like a good story, as I do – then try this: Think of your life as a story. A Story You Create...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 18, 2017 | About T. A. Barron, Articles & Interviews, Inspiration, Speeches
University of California Santa Barbara Commencement Speech 2017 (Condensed Version) Commencement Speech 2017:“Think of Your Life as a Story”PDF If you folks like a good story, as I do – then try this: Think of your life as a story. (Mine is one with an especially...
by T. A. Barron | May 18, 2017 | Blog, Books, Writing & Creativity
My Favorite Villain Much of the focus of my stories is on the path of heroes, since, as Joseph Campbell so wisely taught, every great and enduring adventure involves the journey of a hero who works toward a worthy goal. But some of the most memorable stories have...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 27, 2017 | Blog, Nature, On Nature & the Environment
Nature: the Ultimate Source of Balance, Inspiration, and Magic I remember the very first time I saw the stars on a high mountain ridge in Colorado. It was a clear summer night; no artificial lights distracted from the vista. The evening was calm, but I could feel a...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 24, 2017 | Blog, Books, Contests, Writing & Creativity
More Magical Origin Stories… By Fans Like You! In my last blog entry I shared a few of the entries from my recent Origin Story contest. The competition invited fans of my books to imagine the background of any character from one of my books, and write a short...
by T. A. Barron | Feb 21, 2017 | Blog, Books, Contests, Writing & Creativity
Magical Origin Stories Written by Readers Exploring stories of untold beginnings has always appealed to me as a writer. the Merlin Saga began after I wondered about the early life of the man who became the wise and powerful old wizard we know so well from the tales of...
by T. A. Barron | Jan 19, 2017 | About T. A. Barron, Blog, Books, Inspiration, Writing & Creativity
Giving Birth to a New Book The very first time I hold a new book that I’ve written, I gently give it a loving hug… just as if it were a newborn baby. And maybe, in a way, it is. For giving a new book to the world is the closest thing to delivering life that I...
by T. A. Barron | Dec 12, 2016 | About T. A. Barron, Blog, Books, Inspiration, Merlin, Personal Writing, Writing & Creativity
Gratitude: The Path to a Meaningful – and Magical – Life Long after Thanksgiving is over, two things endure – the feeling that I couldn’t possibly eat another piece of turkey… and, more importantly, a deep sense of gratitude. It will come as no...
by T. A. Barron | Dec 7, 2016 | Blog, Books, Events, News
Wrapping up my Atlantis Lost Book Tour As I wrote about in my last blog entry, I’ve been dashing around the country this autumn in celebration of the release of the third and final book ofthe Atlantis Saga. Last weekend, after an amazing Thanksgiving with family...
by T. A. Barron | Nov 14, 2016 | Blog, Books, Events, News, Videos
From the Atlantis Lost Book Tour I’m more than halfway through the book tour for Atlantis Lost – and what an adventure it has been! I’ve been to 6 cities in 5 states and have been thrilled to meet so many of you and sign your books. And I’ve...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 25, 2016 | Articles, Articles & Interviews, For Educators, Heroes
A Future So Bright Interview by Katie O’Reilly Sierra – The Magazine of the Sierra Club October 25, 2016 Original Article | PDF Young adult author T. A. Barron is known for protagonists who slay dragons and unearth fantastical cities. Yet Barron is equally...
by T. A. Barron | Oct 24, 2016 | Blog, Books, Events, News
Atlantis Lost Book Tour! I’m very happy to share that the third book in the Atlantis Saga, Atlantis Lost, is coming to bookstores everywhere on November 8th. In honor of this final installment in the tale of the mysterious, magical island, I’ll be visiting...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 28, 2016 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, News
Inspiring Change Makers Seasons are a revolving gift—continually different from what has gone before and what will come after. They are the ultimate change makers, with varied weather, foods, holidays, flora, fauna, and activities for us all. Plus a special seasonal...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 19, 2016 | Blog, For Educators, For Young Heroes, Heroes, News
Outstanding Young Leaders: Announcing the Winners of the 2016 Barron Prize We need heroes today more than ever — not celebrities, but real heroes. And while we tend to hear a lot about entertainers, athletes, and media moguls in the headlines, the world often seems to...
by T. A. Barron | Sep 7, 2016 | Blog, For Young Heroes, Heroes
Former Barron Prize Winners Helping the Next Generation One of the most exciting things about the Barron Prize is seeing young people whose projects have been honored continue to make a positive impact on our world. Some of our former winners have even chosen to help...
by T. A. Barron | Aug 11, 2016 | About T. A. Barron, Blog, Featured, For Educators, Inspiration, Personal Writing
The Journey Back – How a Bowl of Noodles Led to a Lifelong Friendship Photo credit: Chiiori Alliance & TrustAt some point in your life—whether as a student, after a graduation, between jobs, or beyond—I hope you will have an opportunity to travel. Whether you...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 31, 2016 | About T. A. Barron, Articles & Interviews, Writing & Creativity
Author and Alumnus Barron Donates Papers to Princeton Library Princeton Library2016 Original Article | PDF The award-winning American author and conservationist Thomas A. Barron, a 1974 Princeton alumnus and a former University trustee, has donated his literary papers...
by T. A. Barron | Jul 21, 2016 | Articles, Articles & Interviews, Merlin Saga, Writing & Creativity
Wizard World: Publisher’s Weekly Article About Merlin Camp Publisher’s Weekly July 21, 2016 PDF Recent Posts Life Lessons I’ve Learned From Trees Seeing Through the Eyes of a Whale Congratulations to the 2024 Barron Prize Winners! Why Heroism Deserves Our...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 22, 2016 | About T. A. Barron, Blog, Featured, For Young Heroes, Heroes, Inspiration, Writing & Creativity
Graduates: Follow Your Dreams, Make a Difference Practical Advice for Grads I’ve always loved a good story. As a kid, I dreamed up stories and poems, sometimes to avoid doing homework, sometimes just for the fun of messing around with words. My first real story,...
by T. A. Barron | Jun 21, 2016 | Blog, Events, For Educators, Merlin, News, Writing & Creativity
Kids Find the Magic at Merlin Camp! A very special event for kids aged 9-12 was held in Boulder earlier this month… the inaugural week of Merlin Camp, brand new for 2016! Eleven young wizards joined the camp counselors from Boulder Bookstore and Boulder Public...
by T. A. Barron | May 23, 2016 | Blog, Books, On Reading, Writing & Creativity
Celebrate Reading! The magic of books is that they allow you to travel wherever you like in your imagination. You don’t even need a ticket… or a toothbrush! The very best stories spark the imagination, empower us, provide comfort, and help us understand...
by T. A. Barron | May 6, 2016 | Blog, Books, On Nature & the Environment
Thank You for Going #IntoNature With Me! I was so pleased at all the entries I received to my recent #IntoNature promotion in celebration of the re-release of The Ancient One! So many of you chose to share your videos, photographs, and thoughts with me, I loved...
by T. A. Barron | Apr 27, 2016 | Blog, On Nature & the Environment
The Enchantment of Nature This entry was contributed by Zanne Tarlow as part of my “Into Nature” guest blog series celebrating the reissue of my book, The Ancient One. I’ve been fascinated by animals for as long as I can remember. For a few years, I desperately...
