Okay, first things first. (And I know you’re just dying to ask the question.)
Is that a recent photo? Like…is my hair still orangey-red?
Nope, to both. In fact, I can tell you that most author photos aren’t really all that recent unless they’re debut authors or Stephen King.
Do I have a recent photo? Somewhere. I might even post it eventually.
Anyway…about me.
Let’s just say that I’m a child psychiatrist, although I started out in surgery (because most every doctor wants to be a surgeon at some point). I didn’t stay in surgery, but that’s another story for another day. I’m also a film scholar (mostly because I love hanging out, watching movies, and eating popcorn that’s truly not good for me), former Air Force major, and an award-winning author of more than thirty of short stories and twenty-some-odd novels. (Believe me, no one is more surprised about that last bit than me.)
In case you were wondering? Yes, I used to write Star Trek. And Mechwarrior. And Battletech. And the occasional ShadowRun. I loved every minute of it, too.
My YA works include the critically acclaimed DRAW THE DARK (winner of the Westchester Fiction Award, a VOYA Perfect Ten, and Bank Street College 2011 Best Book); DROWNING INSTINCT; and THE SIN-EATER’S CONFESSION (a 2014 YALSA BYFA and 2014 TAYSHAS Nominee).
Among many other nominations and awards, ASHES, the first book in my YA apocalyptic thriller trilogy, was a 2011 VOYA Perfect Ten, 2012 YALSA Top Ten Teen Nominee, 2012 YALSA Best Fiction Nominee, and 2012 Outstanding Book by a Wisconsin Author. ASHES is currently a 2013 ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers Finalist, 2013 TAYSHAS High School Reading List, 2013-2014 Gateway Award Final Nominee, 2014 Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Nominee, and 2014 Abraham Lincoln High School Book Award Nominee.
SHADOWS, the second book in the trilogy, hit shelves in 2012, and MONSTERS, the final volume, was released September, 2013, and earned starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus.
WHITE SPACE, the first volume in the Dark Passages duology, hit shelves 2/11/14 and was hailed as a “sophisticated” horror novel for older teens (and they mentioned Stephen King and me in the same breath!). The book was also long-listed for the Stoker. Its sequel, THE DICKENS MIRROR, appeared in 2015.
Most recently, I’ve delved into adult action/adventure and penned five novels in bestselling author Elle James’s Brotherhood Protectors World. SOLDIER’S HEART, PARTS 1-4 follows the adventures of Kate McEvoy, a crackerjack Army medic who was seriously wounded in Afghanistan war and is now part of a super-secret cybersoldier DARPA project. PROTECTING THE FLAME‘s Emma Gold, an Air Force photographer with a secret, survives a plane crash only to discover that’s the easy part.
For the longest time, I was a cheesehead-in-exile, living on a mountain in Alabama with the husband and several furry creatures and even feeding them on occasion. That mountain was pretty darned nice during the worse of the COVID years, too.
But I’m out of Alabama now…and yet still a cheesehead-in-exile because I now live in London. Yep, you read that right. A real city where there’s not a mountain to be seen and not a heck of a lot of trees or birds or other creatures who aren’t people or their teeny-tiny dogs. I’ve had to say good-bye to my cats, too, but they’re in good hands with a new mom and other furry creatures to keep them company.
On the other hand, you know, it’s London: new places, new ideas, new adventures coming at a stage in life where many people don’t get that opportunity. So I figure, okay, go for it, see what happens. Fly back to Wisconsin once a year, visit friends and Lake Superior, spend some time in a real forest or on a mountaintop or (better yet) both.
Is London terrific as cities go? Sure. Personally, I think anyplace where people have lived for over a thousand years has got to be pretty interesting. London is layered, a true necropolis where everything is built on the bones of something–and, not infrequently, someone–else.
Being a tourist is, of course, very different than actually living somewhere. I do find Londoners to be very nice, open people. The cultural landscape is much less rigid here in the city; no one is telling women what they can and can’t do, for example. I don’t worry about getting shot. But Shaw was also correct:
England and America are two countries separated by the same language.
So, we’ll see. Jury’s out. So, stay tuned because, yeah, I’m working on the next book.
In the meantime…don’t even think of touching my cheese.
At parent-teacher conferences this morning, Julia Weinstein told me excitedly about having just read a great review of your latest book… mazel tov!
Thank you! I was pretty thrilled, too. 😉
I am writting this because of a project in my lit class. All the kids in my class have to wright to an author so I choose you. I love your book Ashes. I know it’s for older readers but I just cant get enough of it. I hope that maybe you could write back soon! I am looking up information for my project but I can’t find any, so please answer soon. THANK YOU!
Hey, Sarah: First off, don’t worry about the age the book was intended for. Heavens, I was reading things intended for WAAAYYY older people when I was younger, too.
Second, I’m happy to be helpful. Just tell me how, okay? If you want, maybe move this to email: ilsajbick@gmail.com.
I’m glad you liked the book. Tell your friends 😉
I just finished reading your book and I got it yesterday! I could not put it down. It was amazing, you are such a good writer!
Glad you liked it, Kirsten 🙂
Can antone tell me the realease date for shadows in the dark? I enjoyed the first book so much I cant wait to read the next one 🙂
Hey, Steph: I assume you mean SHADOWS, the second volume of the ASHES trilogy, and not the sequel to DRAW THE DARK, right? Just asking. SHADOWS will hit shelves in the fall of 2012. Glad you liked the book and thanks for writing!
Just finished Ashes which is the first book I’ve read of yours. I loved it! I can’t wait to read the other two in the trilogy. It was odd, interesting, a tad gross and just a wonderful read! I am going to look for some of your earlier publications. I think you may be my favorite author now. 🙂
*blush* Thanks, Jennifer. I’m glad you liked the book. Just remember that DRAW THE DARK is a very different kind of novel and the forthcoming DROWNING INSTINCT (Carolrhoda Lab; February, 2012) is different still! I’m not exactly into wash-rinse-repeat, you know? But thank you for getting in touch. Giving you a nice read is what this is all about. Now . . . go tell your friends and neighbors! 😉
Greetings, Ilsa!
I just finished Ashes and must say I am absolutely in love with your writing style. It is so refreshing to read a post-apocalyptic story where the undead are not zombies. We are really not sure why, what, who, etc they are. The fact that these elements are left to our imagination as the story builds is fantastic.
I also appreciate a strong, female protagonist. Alex comes across so independent, yet so vulnerable, and I really have grown to genuinely care about her.
I am looking forward to the following books in the series. One request: Please write faster! Haha!
Best,
Salvez
Portland, OR
Salvez, thank you! I’m so glad you liked the book–and I’m writing as fast as I can! 🙂
Ilsa,
Picked up Ashes at the local supermarket about 9 hrs ago and have just finished it. I’m English so I’m allowed to say ‘bloody’ marvelous. I found Ashes to be utterly absorbing, intelligent, clever, thoughtful and thought provoking, subtle and yet unforgiving. Brilliant. If I could write I would want to be able to write as you do with pace, excitement, insight and amazing cliff-hangers.
Thanks you for a superb tale!
Dave
Somewhere in the countryside in Sussex in England
Thank you, Dave! How nice of you to write in and tell me what you thought–and I wish I could use “bloody” with impunity. I once said it in front of a true Englishman and, oh, his face. Major faux pas :
I read way too much. Honestley I am only 12 and am reading books that my mother likes (ie Dracular by Bram Stoker or Frankenstien by Mary shelly) so Sarah don’t worry about the books you read. It makes you smarter. Ask any author or libraian. PS let the book out I need a new book to read soon!
LOL! You can never read too much. I read all my mom’s books, too. You’re making some excellent choices.
I just finished Ashes after buying it today and I frantically began searching google to find out when Shadows comes out then ended up here. I just wanted to leave a comment to say how much I absolutely adore Ashes and just really can’t wait for the sequel, at first I thought it was just a one-book wonder but then I got nearer the end and realised no way could the story end here. (Which then left me feeling half frustrated that I can’t carry on reading straight away but half relieved that there’s more to the story.) I’m Scottish and live in Scotland so I don’t know if I’m entirely justified to say bloody all the time but I do anyway. I’m going to stop typing now or I’ll be writing a short story instead of a comment. Great book and can’t wait for more! (:
First off, you have my permission to say “bloody” as many times and often as you wish 🙂 Secondly, thanks for writing. I’m glad you enjoyed the book–and, yes, it would be AWFUL to leave people hanging like that, don’t you think?
Just finished ashes and I agree it’s so good to read a post apocalyptic book without the undead! Having just read, loads of Amanda hockings, Joseph talutto and Robert duperre this was a breath of fresh air and new perspective ANC I can’t wait to see what happens next, will recommend to all my friends.
Linda, Scotland xx
Thank you, Linda! I’m so glad you liked the book. Feel free to talk it up as much as you want. 😉 Where are you in Scotland? I LOVE Scotland. Visited on my honeymoon. Just a beautiful country.
What was your inspiration to start writing?
Also, what challenges have you faced? (I’m sorry about the questions but im doing a project on you)
Tell you what, John. If you’re doing a school project, go to my website, go to CONTACT, use the drop-down menu to write to me and then you can consolidate all your questions. Okay?
Also, tell me where you’re going to school and let me have your teacher’s contact info 🙂
I’ve never commented on how much I loved a book before, however Ashes was just superb. I am utterly terrified of zombies or anything resembling them. haha, it was hard to read at first for that reason alone, I would start to get scared, but just had to continue. I can not WAIT for shadows.
Thank you, Frances! I’m glad that my book was the one that got those fingers dancing on the keyboard. I love to hear from folks! I do hope you like SHADOWS, too. 😉
Hey Ilsa.
I absolutely loved reading Ashes. One of the best books I have ever read.
I couldn’t put the book down. I got it about two months ago, but with the many other books I have, I hadn’t got a chance to read it.
Anyway. I was off school sick today and decided to start reading Ashes. And since this morning, I haven’t been able to put the book down.
I loved the cliff hanger at the end (which I thought was a huge twist ending too) and now I can’t wait until Shadows comes out!
Sam, Northern Ireland 🙂 x
Hey, thanks, Sam! If I’m not mistaken, SHADOWS comes out in mid-September, so you don’t have TOO long to wait. But, more importantly, are you feeling better? Ready to go back to school? 😉
I have never been to Northern Ireland; there just hasn’t been time, but I hope that if I’m invited back on tour, I can put in an appearance. If not, maybe I’ll just have to make that trip on my own. You’ve got a lovely country.
Hello Ilsa,
Let me first say, “BRAVO!!” (clap, clap, clap) I absolutely loved Ashes. I’ve been reading like crazy lately, lots of teen novels, and I’m 27 years old…lol. Well, let me say your character visualization and writing sucks me in like quicksand and has me definitely thirsty and ravenous for more! I give props to a local bookstore in Tempe, AZ called Changing Hands Bookstore because they highly recommended your book. When I read that last page, I screamed out, “WHAT!!?” :O and scared my 3 kids and husband half to death. I googled you and the book immediately following my “Changed” like devouring of the book, and I was SOooo relieved to find that this book has a sequel. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! You just given me an early birthday present (April 2nd) and I bow to you thankfully…lol. I can’t wait to read SHADOWS and I will tell everyone about your book….:)
Oh, Kim–LOL–thank you so much for this. I woke up in such a bad mood; the coffee tastes weak; the day looks gray…and then I get to read your letter. Talk about a much-needed jolt! I’m glad you enjoyed the book and I do hope you enjoy SHADOWS, too.
Also, please give my best to the wonderful ladies–Stephanie, Robyn and Brandi–at Changing Hands. They made me feel so welcome.
And Happy Birthday! 😉
I know…I don’t know what it is about the month of March…I guess the saying holds true, “Beware the ides of March”. I’m looking very forward to St.Pattys Day. But yes, all my coworkers are in line for this book too. They were taking turns reading it, but they all gave in and bought their own copies…I’m very cool and sneaky that way…But yes i will send your hellos to Changing Hands. That place is my sanctuary…PLEASE NEVER STOP WRITING….
Kim Rae
Tempe, AZ
Oh, March is such a crazy month. I completely agree. On the one hand, spring is sort of around the corner, but we can still get snow. (Although we’ve had such a wimpy winter.)
As for me, stop writing? Never.
Omg I love ur books!! I can’t wait intill I read the second one!! I’m from wales-britan so that’s how far your books as made it!!!!!! I hope in the end its a happy ending :L although I sort of doubt the possibilities!!
Omg I love ur books!! I can’t wait intill I read the second one!! I’m from wales-britan so that’s how far your books as made it!!!!!! I hope in the end its a happy ending :L although I sort of doubt the possibilities!! Omg I can’t belive my fave writer is actually reading this :’D
Well, thank you, Sian! It’s marvelous that ASHES has made it all the way to Wales (which I hear is BEAUTIFUL). As for the ending . . . well, you’ll just have to come back for more 😉
Hi from Singapore. I’ve just finished a marathon reading session of Ashes and am absolutely hungering for the next 2 books. Though way past the YA age group, somehow I’m captivated by Maggie Stiefvater, Suzanne Collins and now, your books. Have recommended these reads to like minded friends who like intelligent, imaginative yet authentic stories with admirable, strong ‘she-roes’! I thought it interesting that you were an English major, a former Air Force major and child psychiatrist 🙂 I look forward to whatever else you spin next.
Well, thank you, Irene. Where is Singapore? I’ve heard from a couple other fans there, too.
As for your age . . . honey, I’m so far past YA, I need a telescope. 😉 My oldest fan is 82. But isn’t it interesting how many adults like YA lit? I keep wondering why that it is. What about you? And how did you hear about ASHES anyway?
Hmmm, other stuff . . . I think that Quercus UK is coming out with DROWNING INSTINCT sometime next spring (as I recall). It’s already out here and DRAW THE DARK came out in 2010.
Thanks for writing, Irene.
I just finished your book….AMAZING. I can’t wait till Shadows come out, basically screaming at my mum >.< You're a excellent writer, so while i wait for the second one, i will hook up with some of your other book 😀
Well, Rosy, you are welcome! Forgive me for not getting back to you earlier; somehow your comment got drowned in a ton of superfluous emails :
Hi Ilsa,
Have just finished your book and am about to pass it onto my teenage friends and non-teenage friends alike! I just loved it! I can’t wait to find out what happened to Tom and Ellie and I SO want Tom and Alex to get together! Never mind about Chris! Anyway, that’s about it – can’t wait for the next one!
Lindyl from Australia 🙂
Thanks, Lindyl! I appreciate you spreading the love. 🙂
Ilsa, I loved ASHES and I cannot wait for the next book about Alex! What a wonderful, strong character she is! I have to tell you that for the past several years, I have really been into the YA genre, especially the dystopian future novels. I’m 41 Ilsa, and your books are at the top of my list! Thank you for such a great book and I’m with Salvez… Please write faster!! 🙂
Thank you, Christa. It pleases me no end to hear from fans of ALL ages. Rest assurred, too: I’m writing as fast as I can 😉
i read and re-read the last chapter of your book ASHES until my eyes burst. how could you be so cruel?? 🙂 anyway, you rock! your story had me from beginning to end and i can’t wait for the next one! you’re an inspiration to guppy, wide-eyed, young writers like me and just so you know, i’m recommending your book to every single one of my friends! cheers ilsa!
Heh. Yes, you’ve discovered my secret: I *am* cruel. On purpose 😉
Glad you liked it, Sarinah. Thanks!
Hi, my 7th grade ILA teacher recommended your book today at 3:00 pm. I have safely said tht I have said down on then couch and read the book Ashes for about 5 hrs today, such a cliffhanger… I will be ordering shadows of course, because of the CLIFFHANGER!!! Just saying I loved the book and will be strongly suggesting this as a read for my friends and will now continue to read you books. Thank you!
Wow, Abby, you read very quickly!! And thanks for recommending my book to your friends. Very high praise 🙂
The first time I saw your book I almost cried 🙂 and refused to read it. In fact, I got so mad, I threw it on the ground. At this point the librarian was staring at me, and my friends were bending over with laughter. You might be able to guess why. If not, look at my name.
This afternoon, I found an unused amazon gift card. Being the avid reader that I am, this was of extreme value. I was browsing the books, and yours came up. I then decided to give it a try. I can not wait 3 to 5 shipping days. I am going to the library!!!
Oh, my goodness! You’re the first *ILSA* I’ve run across. Most are *ILSE*, you know?
Anyway, I hope that my book doesn’t add to your ire . . .although the ending might 😉 Enjoy!
Hey its me again! Do you know when SHADOWS is coming out in britain? I can’t find the book but I also dont know the releasing date her 🙁