April 22

Born in 1707, Henry Fielding began writing satirical plays that captured London’s social scene. After theater censorship in 1737, he turned to novels, publishing works like 'Joseph Andrews'. His comic epic 'The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling' (1749) combined humor with moral and social critique. Fielding co-founded the Bow Street Runners, considered London’s first professional police force. His narrative style and robust characters influenced subsequent novelists such as Dickens and Austen. He died in 1754, leaving a dual legacy in literature and modern law enforcement practices.

Anne Louise Germaine de Staël-Holstein (1766–1817) was a French author and political philosopher. She wrote novels, essays, and treatises that advocated for constitutional monarchy and liberal principles. Her notable works include De l'Allemagne, which introduced German Romanticism to French readers. Staël hosted influential salons that became centers of intellectual exchange across Europe. She challenged censorship and wrote passionately on individual rights and the role of literature in society. Her ideas had a lasting impact on European thought during and after the French Revolution.

Born in Brussels in 1854, La Fontaine became a leading international lawyer and a tireless advocate for disarmament and arbitration. He co-founded the International Peace Bureau and served as its president, promoting legal frameworks to prevent war. In 1913, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. His writings on internationalism and world federalism influenced later peace movements. He continued teaching and writing until his death in 1943, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of international relations.

Born in Richmond, Virginia in 1873, Glasgow published her first novel, The Voice of the People, at the age of 23. Over her career, she authored more than 30 novels, essays, and short stories exploring themes of modernization, gender roles, and social reform in the post–Civil War South. In 1942, she won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel In This Our Life. Glasgow’s incisive style and nuanced characters earned her recognition as one of the leading American writers of her time. She died in 1945, leaving a legacy of influential Southern literature.

Born in Saint Petersburg to a wealthy literary family, Vladimir Nabokov began writing in Russian before emigrating to Western Europe and eventually the United States. His landmark novel 'Lolita' (1955) shocked and captivated readers with its provocative narrative and linguistic virtuosity. Nabokov was also a passionate lepidopterist, describing numerous butterfly species and authoring scientific papers in entomology. He taught literature at Cornell University, influencing generations of students with his insights on creativity and aesthetics. Nabokov's bilingual literary career and unique blend of artistry and science have secured his status as a 20th-century cultural icon.

Robert Choquette was an American-Canadian writer celebrated for his novels and poetry exploring themes of identity and faith. Born in New York and raised in Quebec, he authored acclaimed works such as 'Les Morts' and 'Pirouettes'. He later served as Canadian Ambassador to Spain, blending his literary talents with diplomatic service. Choquette won several literary awards and was admired for his elegant prose and lyrical style. His dual career bridged cultures and disciplines, leaving a lasting mark on both literature and international relations.

Jan de Hartog was a Dutch-American author and playwright whose works delved into moral and social questions. He began writing plays in the Netherlands before emigrating to the United States in 1939. His bestselling novels include The Captain and the Kings (1942) and The Children of the Sun (1961), inspired by his seafaring experiences. De Hartog's storytelling often reflected his pacifist beliefs and concern for human dignity. He founded the Oxygen House, a retreat for cystic fibrosis patients, demonstrating his commitment to social causes. Over a six-decade career, he earned international acclaim and saw his works translated into multiple languages. He remains celebrated for his compassionate narratives and enduring influence on modern literature.

William Jay Smith published his first collection of poetry in 1945 and became associated with the New Criticism movement. He served as Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress from 1968 to 1970. Smith taught at institutions including Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Minnesota. His poetry is noted for its formal innovation, wit, and exploration of language's musicality. He translated works from French, Spanish, and Portuguese, introducing international poets to English readers. Smith received honors such as the Bollingen Prize and the Shelley Memorial Award. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he published over 20 books and influenced generations of poets.

Peter Kane Dufault (1923–2013) served as a B-24 bomber pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, he earned degrees in English and became a respected poet and essayist. Dufault published several poetry collections, exploring themes of nature, war, and human experience. He taught creative writing at colleges and led workshops across the country. His writing was praised for its lyrical precision and reflective depth. Dufault's dual legacy as a veteran and artist underscores the transformative power of storytelling.

Aaron Spelling (1923–2006) began his career as an actor before moving into writing and production. He co-founded Four Star Television and later established Spelling Television, producing blockbuster series. His credits include 'The Love Boat,' 'Dynasty,' 'Melrose Place,' and 'Charmed.' Spelling pioneered glossy, high-concept dramas that captivated audiences worldwide. He amassed over 200 prime-time television credits and became one of the industry's most prolific figures. Spelling's shows influenced generations of storytellers and remain staples of television syndication.

Born in 1938, Adam Raphael has built a career as a journalist covering political and social issues in the UK. He has contributed to major British newspapers and magazines, offering in-depth analysis and commentary. As an author, he has published several books that explore the impact of government policy and economic trends on society. Known for his clear writing style and meticulous research, his reporting has earned him respect among peers. Adam Raphael remains active in journalism, continuing to comment on contemporary events and media ethics.

Ray Guy was a Canadian journalist and author celebrated for his vivid storytelling and commitment to community journalism. Born in 1939, he spent decades reporting on local events and cultural life in Canada. As an author, he published books that captured the experiences of ordinary people, blending narrative flair with journalistic precision. His writing earned him several awards and a loyal readership. Beyond the page, Guy mentored emerging journalists and championed press freedom. Until his passing in 2013, he remained an influential voice in Canadian media.