Meet Elizabeth (Beth) Duncan
Bringing Inspiring Stories to Young Readers
Beth Duncan writes biographies and stories that help elementary school readers discover the values of perseverance, courage, and possibility.
Connecting Children with the Stories Behind History
Beth Duncan has loved reading, writing, and sharing stories since she was a girl.
Writing children’s books allows her to tap into what she loved about stories as a child. She combines her interests in history, human nature, and storytelling in her books.
In her biographies, Beth explores how an individual’s dreams, ideas, and actions can shape history and open doors for others. Each biography is written to engage elementary school readers while maintaining historical accuracy.
Her books for young readers are filled with fun and imagination. The characters explore the world around them and learn at the same time, just like the children she knows as a parent and from her years as a teacher.
Books Inspired by Students
Beth taught elementary school students for many years, where the curiosity, imagination, and insight of her students deeply influenced her approach to storytelling.
Her time in the classroom gave her an understanding of elementary school learners- their questions about fairness and opportunity, their growing awareness of history, and their eagerness to discover how individuals shape the world around them.
She brings that classroom insight to every book she writes.
Beth enjoys visiting classrooms, schools, and libraries to share her books with young people. Her presentations can be tailored to individual classroom needs.
Biographies of Extraordinary People
Antonia and Her Magic Wand is Beth’s first picture book biography. The book joins her four chapter-book biographies that highlight notable people in Colorado history.
Her focus remains constant: telling stories of individuals whose resilience, courage, and adaptability reshaped history.
Telling Antonia Brico's Story
Beth started playing the violin in elementary school and developed a lifelong love of string instruments and classical music.
When she was a teenager, her father surprised her with season tickets to see Antonia Brico conduct in Denver. She remembers watching Dr. Brico stride confidently onto the stage, raise her baton, and command the orchestra.
Years later, Beth learned the full story of Antonia’s journey; the resistance she faced, the barriers she broke, and the orchestra she built when no one would hire her. She knew young readers needed to hear it.
This personal connection inspired her to share Antonia’s story with others.
A Note from the Author
What I've Learned from Years as a Teacher
As a longtime elementary school teacher, I bring everything I learned in my classroom to the pages of my books. I believe that biographies are among the most powerful tools we can offer to young readers– they ground children in history, show them what courage looks like in real life, and demonstrate that perseverance in the face of obstacles is not just possible, but transformative.
When I wrote Antonia and Her Magic Wand, I wanted my students —and every child who picks up this book —to see themselves in her determination. History comes alive when it has a human face and a protagonist who refuses to give up.
My years in the classroom taught me how children listen, what makes their eyes light up, and how to tell a true story in a way that stays with them long after the last page is turned. My book is built on the belief that the lives of extraordinary people can inspire the next generation to dream bigger and push harder.
Beyond the Books:
Fun Facts About Beth Duncan
- Elizabeth Duncan has always been called “Beth.”
- She loves animals, especially cats, and has five grand-cats who live with her grown children
- She plays the violin and sings in a rock-and-roll choir.
- She lives in Colorado with her husband, her children, and their families.
- She and her husband have traveled all over the world.
- She enjoys hiking in the mountains and identifying wildflowers.
- She likes to play games, especially Scrabble, Jeopardy, and the New York Times Word puzzles.
- Her favorite things to do are to read and talk about books.
