At just 11 years old, Bella Olson is already proving that creativity knows no age. The young author behind Trapped began her writing journey at age seven, turning her imagination, curiosity, and love of storytelling into a gripping adventure for young readers. With a natural flair for inventive ideas and a passion for “what if” scenarios, Bella represents a new generation of storytellers who are fearless, expressive, and deeply inspiring. In this conversation, she shares her journey, inspirations, and what it means to create stories that help others feel brave.
HELLO BELLA OLSON, WELCOME TO WORLDAUTHORS.ORG! CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF?
Hi! I’m Bella Olson, I’m 11 years old, and I’m the author of Trapped. I love writing big, adventurous stories with wild twists and lots of imagination. I also enjoy inventing things, swimming, and coming up with ideas that are a little unusual—in a good way.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM, AND WHERE DO YOU CURRENTLY LIVE?
I’m from the United States, and I live here with my family. I’ve grown up surrounded by creativity and support, which has really helped me become a writer. My family is very encouraging—and also very patient when I randomly shout story ideas at the dinner table!
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
I love swimming—it makes me feel strong and calm at the same time. I also enjoy building and inventing things, reading, spending time with friends, and, of course, writing. Sometimes I just sit and think about “what if” scenarios, which is how many of my story ideas begin.
CAN YOU SHARE YOUR JOURNEY AS A WRITER?
I started writing Trapped when I was seven years old. At first, it was just a fun idea about a girl, a mad scientist, and some intense traps. I kept adding to it little by little as my imagination grew. I didn’t originally plan to become an author—I just loved creating. But over time, I realized I wanted to finish the story and share it with other kids.
IF YOU HAD TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
Creative. Determined. Slightly dramatic (okay… maybe very dramatic—but in a fun way!).
WHAT INSPIRES YOU IN YOUR WORK AND EVERYDAY LIFE?
Imagination inspires me the most. I love asking “What if?” I’m also inspired by real life—things like swimming competitions, being scared of the dark, sibling pranks, and friendships.
WHAT IS SOMETHING PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I get scared of things too—like tight spaces or the dark. Writing about scary situations actually helped me work through those fears.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN WRITING?
I’ve always loved stories—reading them, creating them, and acting them out. One day, I decided to start writing my own, and I never wanted to stop.
WHAT INSPIRED YOUR BOOK TRAPPED?
The idea came from my imagination running wild. I wanted to create a story about a girl who uses creativity instead of strength to survive.
ARE YOU WORKING ON ANY NEW PROJECTS?
I’m always thinking about new ideas! I have more stories in my head and love creating characters who face big challenges.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS MOVING FORWARD?
I want to keep writing stories that help kids feel brave and understood and show that you don’t have to wait until you’re older to do big things.