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Portrait of author Karen Barbaro

karen Barbaro

Black belt instructor. Author of mysteries that build real confidence.

I write empowering middle-grade mysteries inspired by real-world courage.

Writing Interests

Middle Grade Fiction

I write middle grade fiction because I wanted to create a character kids could see themselves in — someone who learns that her voice matters, that she matters, and that sometimes standing up for others means using that voice even when it's hard. After over twenty-five years teaching self-defense, I've watched that kind of courage take shape firsthand, and I wanted to put it into a story.

Self-Defense Blog

Everything you need to know about self-defense, you learned in kindergarten — you just didn't know it yet. This blog breaks down real-world safety, one childhood rule at a time.

Current Projects

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Sam Hill Mysteries: Voices in the Dojo

Twelve-year-old Sam Hill just won her first tournament — and she has no idea how. (She wasn't the one fighting.) Coming soon.

More in the Works

More Sam Hill mysteries are already brewing — follow along on Instagram for sneak peeks.

"Sometimes it takes a kid to stand up for a kid. Turns out, I'm that kid."  Sam Hill

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