After cutting their teeth on a steady diet of fan fiction in the Southwest of England, Esme Symes-Smith wandered north to Wales for their degree in literature and creative writing, then promptly migrated to Missouri after meeting their wife on Tumblr. Esme has been a ghostwriter, an editor, a frozen-yogurt seller, and a caffeine purveyor. They now wrangle preschoolers for a living and have a severe tea problem. twitter- @EsmeSymesSmith instagram- ez_symes_smith
ALA Rainbow Book Top 10 List ""Everything you could possibly want from a middle grade fantasy....Fierce, sharp-witted and unapologetically queer."" —The Nerd Daily ★ ""Tenacious, vulnerable, and gritty, Sir Callie is a hero that belongs on every library shelf. This is an important book that will capture every reader’s heart and imagination."" —SLJ, starred review ★ ""In this uplifting debut, Symes-Smith skillfully crafts an emotionally rich adventure starring an intersectionally inclusive cast of courageous characters."" —Publishers Weekly, starred review ★ ""A can’t-miss, one-of-a-kind (for now!) page-turner, bursting with heart...Among the best of the year—and a debut, no less."" —Booklist, starred review “Fierce, heartfelt and determined....Callie and their friends refuse to give up or stop questioning the discrimination within their society.” —Kirkus Reviews ""Young readers will find a worthy hero in Callie."" —Bookpage ""Symes-Smith has forged a razor-sharp story of bravery, emotional resilience, deep honor, and adventure!' — Ash Van Otterloo, author of CATTYWAMPUS ""This warm hug of a book is a love letter to classic fantasy novels and a joyous celebration of found families, finding your place, and making your way in the world on your terms (and with your chosen pronouns). It's thoughtful, inclusive, and an absolute joy."" — Jamie Pacton, author of THE LIFE AND (MEDIEVAL) TIMES OF KIT SWEETLY ""A groundbreaking, magical story about fighting for who you are...Callie is a character every middle grade reader deserves to have on their shelves."" — Nicole Melleby, author of HURRICANE SEASON ""A groundbreaking story with engaging, unforgettable characters, whose personal journeys will mean the world to so many young readers."" — A. J. Sass, author of ANA ON THE EDGE “Sir Callie is the hero I needed while growing up, and I am so grateful this story exists for kids today.” —H.E Edgmon, Author of THE WITCH KING