She often focuses on:
* Historical events: She weaves fictional stories around real historical events, bringing them to life for young readers.
* Strong female characters: Her books often feature courageous and determined female characters who overcome challenges and make a difference.
* Themes of resilience, courage, and hope: Hesse's stories explore themes of resilience, courage, and the ability to find hope even in difficult circumstances.
Some of her most popular books include:
* "Out of the Dust" (historical fiction set during the Dust Bowl)
* "The Music of Dolphins" (historical fiction about a girl raised by dolphins)
* "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" (fantasy novel with elements of historical fiction)
* "The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963" (historical fiction exploring the Civil Rights Movement)
While she primarily writes historical fiction, she has also written other genres, including:
* Fantasy: "The Girl Who Drank the Moon"
* Realistic fiction: "The Girl Who Drank the Moon"
* Middle grade: "The Music of Dolphins"
So, while Karen Hesse is most recognized for her historical fiction, she has written in other genres as well, but historical fiction remains her primary focus.