March 30

Published in 1877, 'Black Beauty' was Sewell’s only novel but became an international bestseller and enduring classic. The story, told from the perspective of a horse, sparked public awareness of animal cruelty and influenced reform in animal treatment. Sewell wrote the novel while confined by illness, drawing on her knowledge of horses from childhood. Although she died shortly after its publication, her work inspired changes in carriage horse care and remains a staple of children’s literature. Her legacy endures in movements for humane treatment of animals.

Verlaine emerged as a leading figure in 19th-century French poetry, publishing his first collection in 1866. His work emphasized musicality, emotion, and suggestive imagery, influencing Symbolist and Decadent writers. Verlaine’s tumultuous personal life, including his relationship with Arthur Rimbaud, often mirrored the intensity of his verse. He served time in prison for shooting Rimbaud, an episode that colored his later poetry. Verlaine’s legacy endures through his lyrical innovations and impact on modern poetry.

Seán O'Casey was born in Dublin in 1880 and rose from working-class roots to become a celebrated dramatist. He gained fame with plays like 'Juno and the Paycock' and 'The Plough and the Stars', portraying social and political tensions. O'Casey's characters combined humor and tragedy, offering a compassionate lens on Irish society. During the Irish revolutionary period, he joined the Irish Citizen Army, influencing his dramatic themes. Beyond the stage, he published memoirs recounting his personal and creative journey. O'Casey's work remains a cornerstone of modern Irish theatre and literature.

Born in 1891, Chunseong became a prominent Seon Buddhist monk and spiritual teacher in Korea. He authored numerous works exploring the intersection of Buddhist philosophy and everyday life. Throughout his life, he advocated for compassion, ethical living, and self-cultivation. He taught at major monastic institutions and lecture halls, earning respect for his clear and accessible style. His writings influenced both religious and secular audiences during a turbulent period in Korean history. Chunseong continued his work through Japanese occupation and the Korean War, promoting peace and understanding. He passed away in 1977, leaving a legacy of scholarship and spiritual guidance.

Jean Giono was born in 1895 in Manosque, France, and served in World War I, an experience that deeply influenced his pacifist views. His debut novel, Colline (1929), introduced readers to the rhythms and landscapes of his native Provence. Giono’s lyrical prose and focus on nature won him critical acclaim, with works like Un de Baumugnes and Le Hussard Sur Le Toit. During World War II, he faced scrutiny for his pacifism but continued writing, exploring themes of community and survival. After the war, he published essays and poetry that reflected his humanist philosophy. Giono’s writings have inspired filmmakers and artists for decades. He died in 1970, leaving a rich literary legacy rooted in the South of France.

Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay (1899–1970) was a prolific Bengali writer whose works spanned detective fiction, historical novels, and drama. He created the beloved sleuth Byomkesh Bakshi in 1932, blending intellectual intrigue with cultural authenticity. His stories were celebrated for their intricate plots and vivid portrayal of Indian society under British rule. Bandyopadhyay also wrote plays and screenplays for early Bengali cinema, enriching the region's literary and film heritage. His influence continues through adaptations of his work in television and film. His writing preserved the nuances of Bengali language and culture, securing his place among India's literary giants.

Milton Acorn was born in 1923 on Prince Edward Island and became one of Canada’s most beloved poets. Nicknamed the "People’s Poet," his work celebrated everyday life and championed political activism. Acorn’s collection Trumpets of Morning earned him the Governor General’s Award for Poetry in 1966. He also wrote plays and collaborated with musicians, bringing poetry to diverse audiences through performance. Acorn was a founding member of the League of Canadian Poets and influenced a generation of writers with his accessible style. He passed away in 1986, leaving behind a rich literary legacy that continues to inspire.

Born in London, Tom Sharpe worked as an educator in South Africa before beginning his writing career. He gained acclaim for his biting satire in novels such as 'Wilt' and 'Porterhouse Blue'. Sharpe's irreverent humor and social commentary won a wide readership worldwide. After being expelled from South Africa, he settled in Spain and continued to write until his death in 2013. His unique blend of farce and wit established him as a leading figure in modern British comedy literature.

Lorenzo Kom'boa Ervin is an American activist, writer, and self-described black anarchist. He was an early member of the Black Panther Party and later advocated for anarchist principles. Ervin authored the influential pamphlet "Anarchism and the Black Revolution" in 1980. After a high-profile prison escape, he became an international speaker on human rights and anti-imperialism. His writings critique racial oppression and state power, inspiring activists worldwide. Ervin continues to lecture and publish on issues of social justice and liberation.

Naomi Sims broke barriers as one of the first African-American models to appear on major magazine covers. Discovered in the late 1960s, her poise and elegance led to landmark advertising campaigns. She launched her own modeling agency, beauty salons, and authored books on modeling and self-confidence. Sims used her platform to advocate for greater diversity in the fashion industry. Her legacy endures through the paths she paved for models of color worldwide.

Shahla Sherkat began her career in journalism and rose to prominence after founding Zanan magazine in 1992, Iran's first weekly publication dedicated to women's issues. Under her leadership, Zanan tackled taboo topics such as domestic violence and gender equality and became a symbol of female empowerment. The magazine was banned in 2008 following its critical stance on social and political norms, but Sherkat continued her advocacy through digital platforms. As an author, she has written essays and editorial pieces that highlight the challenges faced by Iranian women. Sherkat's work has earned her international recognition and inspired a new generation of female journalists in the Middle East.

Marie-Christine Koundja began her professional life as a writer, publishing works that explore social dynamics and Chadian identity. She later joined the diplomatic service, representing Chad at international forums and strengthening cultural ties. Koundja's novels and essays have been praised for their insightful portrayal of modern African society and women's experiences. In her diplomatic role, she has worked on cultural exchange programs and advocated for educational initiatives. Her career reflects a blend of literary creativity and diplomatic leadership, making her a prominent figure in both fields.