Books in Order: Delving into the Literary World of Jane Smiley
California-based Jane Smiley is intriguing not only for her impressive literary repertoire but also for her vibrant personal life, involving three kids, sixteen horses, and three dogs. Born in Los Angeles, Smiley’s early life was rooted in St. Louis, MO, where she navigated grade school and high school, eventually graduating from The John Burroughs School. Her magnetic pull towards literature led her to Vassar College, earning her Bachelor’s in 1971.
Post-graduation, Jane embarked on a tour of Europe, reveling in the richness of diverse cultures, even participating in an archaeological dig. Her return marked a significant milestone as she entered the University of Iowa for graduate school. This period saw Jane receiving her MFA and Ph.D., and by 1981, she found herself sharing her knowledge as a professor at Iowa State University in Ames, a role she cherished until 1996.
A Glimpse into Jane Smiley’s Personal Life
Life for Jane has been a montage of intriguing chapters, just like her novels—three marriages, two daughters, and a son. Her notable achievements include ten distinctive works of fiction, with ‘A Thousand Acres’ clinching the prestigious Pulitzer Prize in 1992.
Jane’s talent has graced various respected magazines like The New Yorker, Harper’s, the New York Times Magazine, the New York Times travel section, Vogue, and Allure, among others. Her unique perspectives touched upon an array of subjects — from literature, horse training, Barbie, farming, to marriage.
Diving Deep with Books in Order: Jane Smiley’s Unique Writing Style
Undeniably, Jane’s unique writing style warrants mention, demonstrating an exquisite knack for storytelling. Each narrative, whether about craftspeople living in the Catskills called Crown, or reviews on literature, bears a distinct Jane Smiley hallmark due to her choice of words, flow, and intricate detailing.
Wrapping up, this detailed bio of Jane Smiley serves as an invitation to dive deep into her literary world with her books in order. It’s an opportunity to immerse in prose that’s layered, nuanced and brimming with insights that transcend beyond the pages.
Publication Order of Ellen and Ned Books
| Riding Lessons | (2018) |    |
| Saddles & Secrets | (2019) | |
| Taking the Reins | (2020) | |