Carla C. Ohse’s ability to craft compelling, descriptive stories across a wide range of topics and settings positions her as one of West Michigan’s prolific and distinguished storytellers.
Born on February 24, 1940, in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, Ohse (née Campbell)’s path to authorship was far from ordinary. After graduating from Michigan State University, she dedicated herself to teaching and raising three children. It wasn’t until her youngest graduated from high school that she developed a passion for writing.
Her debut novel Noonday Flower delves into racism through the eyes of a young Black girl in an all-white community. According to Ohse’s daughter, the author attended a predominantly black school— an insightful tidbit that explains the compelling authenticity in the story’s exploration of racial dynamics.
In her second book, She Bear Bride, Ohse presents a coming- of-age narrative reminiscent of Judy Blume’s Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret. The story follows young Beanie, who learns that her own struggles pale in comparison to what her older and wiser Native American friend Bridey has gone through. Into the Hand of a Woman delves into adult themes inspired by an Old Testament figure, a prophetess and judge named Deborah. While the book has inspirational aspects, it is firmly grounded in real-life complexity, blending historical depth with modern realism. Though rooted in Biblical teachings, it eschews the religious conventions present in literary works in the religious book genre.
Ohse’s storytelling combines vivid descriptions with engaging scenes that transport readers into her expertly crafted worlds. Her immersive narratives are further enhanced by an overarching yet subtle-enough moral that the more profound issues only become apparent upon later reflection. The essential element for every book? Ohse told Grand Rapids Magazine, “You always need a good villain.”
Ohse resides in Custer, Michigan, not far from some of the settings that inspired much of her work. Alongside her husband, Robert, she enjoys the company of their three children and three grandchildren.
At the age of 84, she remains committed to sharing her compelling stories with the world, stories that will undoubtedly cement her status as a lasting voice in contemporary literature. Her novels can be found online at Amazon and Kindle, and at multiple brick- and-mortar book retailers.
What Readers Are Saying:
“Noonday Flower“ (2003) stands as Ohse’s magnum opus. This novel draws from extensive research into the history of rural Michigan villages of Walhalla and Idlewild. It tells the poignant story of Noonday, an African American girl growing up in an all-white school district during the 1930s. The narrative, rich in historical detail, explores themes of love, racial prejudice, and personal growth.
“She Bear Bride” (2006) is a young adult novel that addresses the challenges of adolescence with both sensitivity and humor. Set in the summer of 1958, it follows 13-year-old Beannie as she grapples with body image issues and the transition into womanhood. The story is enhanced by Beannie’s interactions with Bridey, an American Indian cancer survivor who provides insights into prejudice and breast cancer awareness. Ohse’s thoughtful approach to these topics makes it an engaging read for young girls and offers valuable lessons on self-worth and resilience.
“Into the Hand of a Woman“ (2010) marks Ohse’s foray into a unique narrative inspired by the Old Testament. The novel follows Judge Deborah Miller, who travels from Manhattan to Israel with the mission of aiding exploited women in a northern refugee camp. With strong parallels to Biblical stories but set in a contemporary context, the novel blends themes of faith, love, and social justice. Ohse challenges traditional stereotypes while providing an empowering perspective on female leadership and faith in a world where a myriad of bad things can and do happen.
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