Create, Connect, Change
CHILDREN'S & YA AUTHOR
Picture books inspired by my grandchildren were the focus of my writing in the beginning and continue to be a driving force in my literary works. Much to my surprise, I also began writing middle grade historical novels after reading an article on women, espionage, and knitting. I never intended to write a novel, ever. Bottom line, writing Knitting The Resistance took over my being. I COULDN’T NOT write it. Now, multiple novels are in the works.
Continue reading to find samples of my work, a detailed biography, and more.
ABOUT ME
I have always been a bit of a dreamer. While my work as a nurse brought me many great places, such as leading an international nursing organization and caring for amazing patients, I am now ready to focus on my dream of becoming a children's author. Being an author has been in the works for decades so when I found the Hamline University Program for Children's Writing, I couldn't miss the opportunity. I knew it was going to be a long and hard journey to getting my first book published, but I haven't looked back since. I feel that it is an effort well worth it to be able to share stories with children.
A bit more about my life, I grew up in White Bear Lake, Minnesota alongside three sisters. I now live in Siren WI. I have been married to the love of my life, Jerry, for over 20 years. Our blended family has two daughters, two sons, their partners, and seven wonderful grandchildren. In my free time I love to knit, sew, scrapbook, make cards, and craft (especially as gifts for others). I like to be outdoors, and I can often be found out in the garden. I also love to be out on the lake or float down the river. If you'd like to see what I've been up to lately, let's connect on LinkedIn or Twitter.
MY VISION
My vision as an author is to create, connect, and change. Create original, impactful, and entertaining literary works for children and young adults to inspire them to make a difference in the world. Connect people to each other through my books regardless of race, age, or gender. Change people's minds about stereotypes and preconceptions and challenge them to change for the better. I know that if can accomplish these goals I can make a lasting change through my writing.
IN THE MAKING
Knitting the Resistance, A middle grade novel about a brother, sister, and grandmother in occupied Belgium during World War II. Sabotage is the subtext as two marginalized groups, children and old women, subvert the German war machine by using messages coded into scarves.
Deck of Cards, A middle grade historical novel, When a deck of old, army map cards turns up in the family antique store Reg, an old WWII vet will have to confront his past to know what this means for his family's future
Camp Olympics, A young adult novel, 1963 is the year fourteen-year-old Nadine Gunderson sold enough Girl Scout cookies to qualify for a scholarship to get herself to sleepover camp, with three of her best friends. Together this quartet of nerdy girls challenge the usual definitions of friendship, overcome challenges, and learn what it really means to win.
Thumbs in the Thumbs place, a creative, non-fiction picture book, Maria, a Latina immigrant, experiences Minnesota winter for the first time. When Bette Fuchs, a knitter, sees Maria and other children at school recess without mittens and hats, she decides to do something. Maria’s life changes when she receives Bette’s mittens. She can now play in the snow, an allegory for Maria’s assimilation into her new surroundings. Since 1983, the Marvelous Mitten Makers has donated over 500,000 items to the St, Paul School System, and other local non-profits.
Princess Talia's Tea Party, A picture book, When rain means Talia must stay inside at Grammy’s, they plan a Royal Tea Party in Talia’s castle, under the dining room table. An imaginative story of believing in make believe, at any age.
Grampy's Garden, This short on words, long on imagery, picture book, follows three grandchildren and their
grandfather as they experience four seasons in the garden.
If you're a publisher who's curious about any of my work, please request a sample. It would be my pleasure to share.
MY LATEST WORKS
In this short video, hear about my latest piece, Knitting the Resistance, and why I wrote it. Plus, learn about some other fun projects I've completed.
ACCOLADES
What They’re Saying
RECENT READS
THE BLOOD YEARS
Elana K. Arnold
NOT QUITE A GHOST
Anne Ursu
REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES
Shelby van Pelt
LUNAR NEW YEAR LOVE STORY
Gene Luen Yang, art by Leuyen Pham
WAND
Landra Jenning
THE WITCH OF WOODLAN
Laurel Snyder
SAINTS OF THE HOUSEHOLD
Ari Tison
THE WISHING MACHINE
Jonathan Hillman
Features & Headlines
PRESS
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MEET THE GRAD: NANCY A. KOLB
I was featured in the Hamline University's blog on July 12, 2019. shorturl.at/mD489
CONTACT
