Fox Cities News

Ellen Baker, a Lawrence University alumna from the class of 1997, is experiencing significant recognition with her latest novel, "The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson." Released in February, the book has been highlighted by People magazine as one of its Best New Books and selected as an Indie Next pick for March by the American Booksellers Association. GoodReads has also recognized it as one of winter's most anticipated books, while BookBub included it on several best-of lists.

Published by Mariner Books, Baker's novel spans over 90 years, beginning with a scene at a Chicago orphanage in 1924 and unfolding secrets in northern Minnesota in 2015. The narrative explores themes of pain, cruelty, love, and hope. This release marks a notable moment for Baker whose previous novels did not receive such widespread attention.

Reflecting on the reception of her work, Baker expressed excitement: “To know that book editors were noticing it, readers were noticing it, people were anticipating it, that was really exciting,” she said from her home in Maine.

Baker's passion for historical fiction traces back to her undergraduate studies at Lawrence University where she majored in psychology but developed a keen interest in American history and literature. Her early experiences included an internship with the Outagamie County Historical Society and independent study courses that fueled her writing aspirations.

“I was always drawn toward writing novels," Baker admitted. "I think I was looking for something that wasn’t so close to my heart because I was also so shy that I didn’t tell anybody I wrote novels."

After graduating from Lawrence University, Baker pursued various roles including living history interpretation and museum work before releasing her first novel "Keeping the House" in 2007. Her academic background contributed significantly to her development as a historical novelist.

“All the pieces of my Lawrence experience and my master’s degree all dovetail into becoming a historical novelist,” she noted.

"The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson" comes after a 13-year hiatus since Baker's last novel. During this period she engaged in freelance writing and launched an online teaching course for aspiring writers. The idea for this new book emerged from stories about DNA surprises impacting personal identities.

“I am fascinated by all the stories I’ve read of people who have had DNA surprises," Baker explained.

The initial draft was completed rapidly within eight months—a process faster than usual for Baker—and sold to Mariner Books through her literary agent. Positive feedback followed quickly from authors she respects.

As she gains momentum both as an author and educator—developing online courses for future novelists—Baker is exploring further projects including screenplay writing with potential film adaptations being discussed.

“I’ve been figuring out how to support myself with writing," said Baker reflecting on lessons learned during her journey which began at Lawrence University where intellectual freedom played an influential role: “The privilege to pursue lines of inquiry you want...how to bring past life...help us not repeat mistakes.”