Ally Carter
Ally Carter is a New York Times bestselling author of young adult fiction, known for her Gallagher Girls and Heist Society series.
Young Adult Writer
January 1, 1974
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Ally Carter, born Sarah Leigh Fogleman on October 19, 1974, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is a renowned young adult author who has captivated readers with her thrilling and action-packed novels. Her literary journey began at a young age when she discovered her passion for storytelling. Growing up in Oklahoma, Carter developed a vivid imagination and a love for books, immersing herself in various genres, from fantasy to mystery, which later influenced her own writing style. After completing high school, she pursued her education at the University of Oklahoma, where she studied journalism and English.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Carter worked as a publicist. Her writing career took flight after she won the prestigious Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Manuscript Competition in 2005. This accolade marked the beginning of her remarkable journey as a young adult author. Her debut novel, “I’d Tell You I Love You, But Then I’d Have to Kill You,” published in 2006, became an instant New York Times bestseller and introduced readers to the world of espionage and intrigue. A self-proclaimed “spy nerd,” Carter has a fascination with espionage and secret societies.
Since then, Ally Carter has continued to captivate readers with her captivating storytelling. Her Gallagher Girls series, featuring the adventures of a group of teenage spies, has become a beloved franchise among young adult readers. The series includes titles such as “Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy,” “Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover,” and “Only the Good Spy Young.” In addition to her Gallagher Girls series, Carter has also written other standalone novels, including “Heist Society” and “Perfect Scoundrels.” Her books have been translated into more than 30 languages and have garnered critical acclaim for their fast-paced plots, witty dialogue, and strong female protagonists.
Carter’s talent and contributions to young adult literature have been widely recognized. She has received numerous awards and accolades, including the Oklahoma Book Award, the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, and the YALSA Teens’ Top Ten Nominee. Her books have also been featured on the New York Times bestseller list multiple times. Praised for their positive portrayal of strong female characters who break stereotypes and defy expectations, Carter’s books have sold more than 5 million copies worldwide.
Actively involved in promoting literacy and encouraging young people to pursue their dreams of becoming writers, Ally Carter currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her husband and two children. When she’s not busy crafting thrilling stories, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and indulging in her love for reading. With her captivating storytelling and unforgettable characters, Carter has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape and solidified her position as one of the most beloved authors in the young adult genre.
