Navigating New Stories: A Conversation with Jane Kirkpatrick

You can listen to Jane’s chat about her book Beneath the Bending Sky from when she was on the show in 2022 by following this link.

Jane Kirkpatrick, a New York Times and CBA best-selling author, graced the Historical Bookworm Show with her engaging presence. With over 40 successful books under her belt, including Beneath the Bending Skies and A Sweetness to the Soul, Jane captures the essence of historical fiction, earning prestigious awards such as the Western Heritage Center’s Wrangler Award and the Will Rogers Gold Medallion.

Exploring New Beginnings

Jane recently returned to the Pacific Northwest, settling into familiar surroundings with her husband Jerry, and their dog Rupert. Despite the challenges of being a caregiver and juggling multiple responsibilities, Jane finds solace in her nature walks and mindfulness exercises—practices that ground her amidst life’s complexities.

 Roots and Influences

Jane’s career as a writer began during her 17-year tenure at the Warm Springs Indian Reservation in Oregon. Surrounded by the vibrant tapestry of Native American storytelling, she developed a sensitivity to cultural authenticity, an element she weaves into her narratives with respect and precision. Her work aims to foster understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity.

 The Joy of Writing: Across the Crying Sands

The interview delved into Jane’s writing process and inspiration for her latest book, Across the Crying Sands. Inspired by the true tale of Mary Edwards Gretzky, the story follows a courageous woman’s journey as the first female mail carrier in rugged Oregon. Jane’s exploration of historical settings serves not just as background but as living, breathing elements that enrich the narrative.

 A Testament to Friendship and Faith

A standout in Jane’s storytelling is her connection with readers, exemplified by Susie—a devoted reader who played a pivotal role in Jane’s discovery of Mary’s story. This narrative journey highlights the power of friendship and the serendipitous paths stories take to manifest in a writer’s imagination.

 Beyond the Pages

The interview also highlights Jane’s exciting venture into screenwriting, adapting one of her beloved novels into a screenplay. With passion and dedicati