Delia Owens

Easton Press Delia Owens books

Where the Crawdads Sing - signed edition - 2020

Author Delia Owens

Delia Owens, an acclaimed writer and naturalist, has captivated readers around the world with her evocative prose, lyrical storytelling, and deep connection to the natural world. Born in 1949 in the state of Georgia, Owens' journey from biologist to bestselling author is a testament to her unwavering passion for both science and storytelling. Owens' early fascination with nature and wildlife set the stage for her lifelong exploration of the natural world. After earning degrees in Zoology and Animal Behavior from the University of Georgia and the University of California, Davis, respectively, she embarked on a career as a wildlife scientist, conducting groundbreaking research on various species in Africa and North America. It was during her time in Africa, where she and her then-husband Mark Owens conducted extensive research on elephants and other wildlife, that Delia Owens developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Her experiences living and working in the remote wilderness of Zambia and Botswana provided her with a wealth of inspiration for her later writing.

In 2006, Owens made her literary debut with the publication of her memoir, Cry of the Kalahari, co-authored with her husband Mark. The book chronicled their adventures and discoveries during their years in Africa, offering readers a firsthand glimpse into the wonders and challenges of life in the wilderness. However, it was Owens' solo venture into fiction that would catapult her to literary stardom. In 2018, at the age of 68, she released her debut novel, Where the Crawdads Sing, a mesmerizing tale of love, loss, and resilience set against the backdrop of the marshes of North Carolina. Where the Crawdads Sing became an instant phenomenon, captivating readers with its lush descriptions, atmospheric setting, and compelling characters. The novel, which weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and coming-of-age, spent over two years on the New York Times Best Seller list and has been translated into numerous languages.

Owens' success as a novelist is a testament to her keen observational skills, intimate knowledge of the natural world, and deep empathy for the human experience. Through her writing, she invites readers to immerse themselves in the beauty and mystery of nature, while also exploring profound themes of loneliness, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. As Delia Owens continues to enchant readers with her literary talents, she remains dedicated to her lifelong mission of advocating for wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. Her work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations, and her words continue to inspire readers to cultivate a deeper connection to the world around them.

In Delia Owens' novels, nature is not just a backdrop but a living, breathing character, whispering its secrets and wisdom to those who take the time to listen. Through her writing, she invites readers to slow down, look closer, and marvel at the wonders of the world we inhabit.