Tod Olson author page

Tod Olson Biography

Tod Olson was born on June 15, 1972, in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in a family that valued education and encouraged his love for reading and writing. Olson attended the University of Chicago, where he pursued a degree in English literature.

After completing his studies, Olson embarked on a career as a writer. He initially focused on writing for children and young adults, aiming to create engaging and educational content. His first published work was the children’s book “Lost in the Pacific, 1942: Not a Drop to Drink” (2016), which received critical acclaim for its historical accuracy and compelling storytelling.

Olson’s passion for history led him to explore various topics and time periods. He delved into World War II with his book “Into the Clouds: The Race to Climb the World’s Most Dangerous Mountain” (2017), which recounted the gripping story of the 1938 American expedition to K2.

In 2018, Olson released “Scarlet Letter Lives,” a non-fiction book that examined the lives of the women who inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel. This work showcased Olson’s ability to blend historical research with captivating narratives.

Throughout his career, Tod Olson has received recognition for his contributions to children’s literature and historical non-fiction. His book “Lost in the Pacific, 1942: Not a Drop to Drink” was a finalist for the 2017 Minnesota Book Award in the Young People’s Literature category.

In addition, Olson’s work has been praised by educators and librarians for its ability to engage young readers and spark their interest in history. His books have been included in recommended reading lists and have received positive reviews from publications such as School Library Journal and Kirkus Reviews.