Andrea Kolich

Andrea Kolich is most at home near the sea—snorkeling, exploring tide pools, and collecting shells that might just be magical. Into the Kaleidoscope began with her daughter’s question: “Why aren’t girls the boss of magic?” That spark led to rebel histories, hidden folklore, and the discovery that a Viking sorceress in her book was actually Andrea’s ancestor.

Andrea holds degrees in philosophy, political science, and international relations, and currently teaches government and cultural diversity in Arizona.

Her middle grade fiction blends folklore, magical realism, and historical mystery, with a focus on empowering girls—especially those who’ve been overlooked. Through encounters with remarkable women from history—scientists, rebels, queens, and healers—her books invite readers to rediscover buried voices and imagine how their stories might spark power in a new generation.

Andrea Kolich is most at home underwater—snorkeling, exploring tide pools, and collecting shells that just might be magical. She’s an adventurer at heart, whether diving into the ocean or disappearing into a good mystery. The idea for Into the Kaleidoscope was sparked on a hike with her daughter, who asked, “Why aren't girls the boss of magic?"

Andrea followed that question into forgotten histories, folklore, and eventually her own family tree—discovering Scottish roots that run through Orkney.

Andrea holds degrees in philosophy, political science, and international relations, and she teaches cultural diversity and government in Phoenix, Arizona. She’s also worked as a reporter and on Capitol Hill—but writing bold, magical stories for curious young readers is by far her favorite job. Her mission is to empower girls—especially those who’ve been overlooked or underestimated—through characters who are clever, capable, athletic, and brave. Girls who solve puzzles, speak up, and rewrite history. Girls who are heroes in their own right.

Into the Kaleidoscope is her debut series—and the beginning of a much bigger journey.

Yes. The Orkney Islands are a real group of around seventy islands located about twenty miles north of Scotland. They've been inhabited for thousands of years, creating a rich history full of Vikings, Celts, Picts, and other fascinating cultures. Most of Zoe's adventures happen on the largest island, called "The Mainland" by locals.

Are the characters in the kaleidoscope real?
What about the Wise Women?

Yes! All the characters Zoe encounters through the kaleidoscope were real historical figures—except Lizzie Leask, Zoe’s quirky, crocodile-loving ancestor, who is entirely fictional. Some of the Wise Women Zoe meets, such as Katherine Caray, were involved in the real Orkney witch trials.

Is there a Ring of Brodgar or Marwick’s Hole?

Definitely! Orkney is famous for its incredibly well-preserved ancient sites like the Ring of Brodgar. While Marwick’s Hole is a real location, the magical disappearing island Hether Blether is from local folklore and has never been scientifically proven to exist. Although older folks swear by it.

Did you invent the supernatural creatures?
(Hogboons, Selkies, Finfolk)

These magical creatures come straight from Orkney’s folklore. I've added some imaginative twists, such as Huey, the amusing Hogboon who enjoys disco music and munching on toenails.

Did the stones of life exist? Was there a Raven Banner?

Historical artifacts like the Raven Banner do have a real basis in Orkney’s past, though I've enhanced them with a bit of storytelling magic. According to historical sagas, the Raven Banner was woven by Eithne, an Irish princess and mother of Sigurd the Stout, Earl of Orkney. The Stones of Life are based upon primary source material documenting three stones used by local Spae-wives, or healers.

What do the symbols on the chapter headings represent?

These symbols are authentic Viking and Pictish designs dating from roughly 300–1100 CE. Viking art is known for intricate animal motifs and interwoven patterns found throughout Scandinavia, Britain, and Ireland. Pictish art is famous for carved standing stones with mysterious symbols, primarily discovered across northeastern Scotland, including Orkney.

Is the dialect accurate?

Yes! The dialect used in the book is real, though I've selectively included words and phrases to give readers a genuine sense of Orkney speech without overwhelming them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Orkney a real place?