Mary Pope Osborne

Mary Pope Osborne

Meet Mary Pope Osborne

Mary Pope Osborne is a beloved American author, cherished by young readers worldwide for her enchanting stories. She is best known as the brilliant mind behind the immensely popular Magic Tree House series, which has captivated millions with its blend of adventure, history, and imagination. Her books inspire a lifelong love of reading and discovery.

The Story Behind the Stories

Born in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Mary Pope Osborne's childhood was a tapestry of constant movement, living in various states and even Austria due to her father's military career. This early exposure to diverse environments fostered a vivid imagination and a deep curiosity about the world. After graduating from the University of North Carolina, she embarked on an extensive journey through Europe and Asia, an experience she credits with planting the "seeds of imagination" that directly led to her writing career. She spontaneously began writing in 1982, channeling her rich background into stories that transport readers.

A Life in Books

Mary Pope Osborne's literary journey began with her first book, "Run, Run As Fast As You Can," published in 1982. However, it was the launch of the Magic Tree House series in 1992, starting with "Dinosaurs Before Dark," that cemented her place in children's literature. This groundbreaking series, alongside its longer "Merlin Missions" and companion "Fact Trackers" (often co-authored with her husband, Will Osborne, or sister, Natalie Pope Boyce), has sold over 134 million copies globally. Her dedication to literacy is evident through her two terms as president of the Authors Guild and numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the University of North Carolina in 2013 and the Ludington Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2005.

Did You Know?

  • Mary Pope Osborne lived in 13 different houses and attended eight different schools by the time she was 15, due to her father's military career.
  • After college, she embarked on an extensive journey, living in a cave on the island of Crete for six weeks and traveling overland through 11 countries across Asia.
  • Before becoming a full-time author, she held a variety of interesting jobs, including a medical assistant, travel agent, drama teacher, and even a bartender.
  • Her husband, Will Osborne, is an actor and playwright, and they famously met when she saw him perform in a musical about the outlaw Jesse James.

Why Readers Love Mary Pope Osborne

Mary Pope Osborne's books resonate deeply because they skillfully weave exciting narratives with educational content, making history and science accessible and thrilling. Her legacy lies in fostering a love for reading and learning in generations of children, encouraging them to explore the vast wonders of the world through the power of stories. We invite you to discover the magic for yourself and browse her wonderful collection at BookClub.com.mt.

22 books available

Latest News

What's new with Mary Pope Osborne

We’re always delighted to share the latest happenings from beloved authors, and this past month brought a wonderful celebration for Mary Pope Osborne! On May 20th, the Camas Public Library hosted their inaugural Children's Author Event, specifically honouring Mary Pope Osborne and her incredible Magic Tree House series. The event, which coincided with her birthday, was a fantastic occasion for young readers to engage with themed activities, celebrating the magic and adventure she brings to countless children worldwide.

For those eager to dive deeper into the enchanting world of Jack and Annie, a new collection, "Magic Tree House Collection, Books 33-40," was published this year. This collection offers another opportunity to journey through time and space with our favourite siblings, exploring history and sparking imagination with every turn of the page. It’s a testament to Mary Pope Osborne’s enduring storytelling that new ways to experience her tales continue to emerge.

Mary Pope Osborne has a remarkable gift for transporting young minds to different eras and places, making learning an exhilarating adventure. Her ability to blend historical facts with captivating narratives has inspired generations of readers to explore the world around them, fostering a lifelong love for books and discovery. Her work truly creates a sense of wonder and curiosity that resonates deeply with children and adults alike.

Have a look through their collection below — there is always something worth discovering.

Last updated June 2026.

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