Elena Smith Books

Born in St. Petersburg (formerly Leningrad), Russia, Elena S. Smith emigrated to the United States and became a citizen in 1996. She holds a Ph.D. in English linguistics and has dedicated over three decades to academia, teaching English, American literature, Russian film, and world culture at universities in Russia, China, Japan, and the United States.

Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, Elena retired from her academic career and turned to fiction writing, finding solace in storytelling during the long months of isolation. Her latest novel, Truths and Lies (the International Impact Book Award winner in 2024),  emerged as her “COVID survival friend,” a creative companion during uncertain times. This marks her second foray into novel writing; her debut work, Why Birches Are White (2006), was her first literary endeavor in a second language—an experience fraught with self-doubt yet ultimately met with enthusiastic reception from readers. The success of that novel bolstered her confidence as an author and deepened her commitment to the craft.

Now an active member of the Inland Northwest Writers Guild and Spokane Authors, Elena enjoys connecting with fellow writers who share her passion for storytelling. Beyond literature, she finds joy in reading, traveling, golfing, hiking, and celebrating life with family and friends. Writing, for her, is more than a profession—it is a bridge between her lived experiences and the hearts of readers who seek connection through words.

 Another significant part of Elena’s life is spending time with Bailey, her remarkably intelligent mini Aussie, whose uncanny ability to outwit humans continues to be one of Elena’s most delightful mysteries.