Mary Doria Russell
Biography
Mary Doria Russell is a highly acclaimed author known for her works in the science fiction genre, particularly for her award-winning series The Sparrow. With a background in cultural anthropology and a doctorate in biological anthropology, Russell brings a unique perspective to her writing that explores themes of religion, morality, and interplanetary travel. Born on August 19, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois, Russell began her career as a paleoanthropologist before transitioning to writing full-time. Her debut novel, The Sparrow, was published in 1996 and quickly gained international recognition for its originality and depth of character development. The sequel, Children of God, followed in 1998 and continued to captivate readers with its thought-provoking narrative. Russell’s work has been praised for its rich storytelling, well-researched scientific concepts, and complex characters. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the James Tiptree, Jr. Award and the Arthur C. Clarke Award. Russell continues to inspire and challenge readers with her thought-provoking explorations of the human experience in a vast and mysterious universe.
Standalone Novels
Individual novels by Mary Doria Russell not part of a series
- Children of God
- Children of God:
- The Sparrow
Classic Series
The series that started it all
- The Sparrow
- Children of God
Recent Series
Latest works by the author
- The Infidel
Reading Order
Complete reading order for Mary Doria Russell's books
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the genre of Mary Doria Russell's books?
Mary Doria Russell's books fall into the science fiction and historical fiction genres.
Which series did Mary Doria Russell write?
Mary Doria Russell is best known for writing The Sparrow series.
What is the first book in The Sparrow series?
The first book in The Sparrow series is titled 'The Sparrow.'
Are Mary Doria Russell's books standalone or interconnected?
The books in The Sparrow series are interconnected and follow a cohesive storyline.
Has Mary Doria Russell won any awards for her writing?
Yes, Mary Doria Russell has won several awards for her writing, including the Arthur C. Clarke Award for Science Fiction Literature.