October 26

Philip Doddridge was born in 1702 and became a prominent Nonconformist preacher. He led a dissenting academy at Kibworth, educating future ministers. Doddridge authored several well-loved hymns, including “O Happy Day”. His theological works emphasized piety, personal faith, and social reform. He traveled widely, preaching and establishing churches across England. Doddridge promoted education and welfare initiatives for the poor. He died in 1751, leaving a legacy of religious literature and ministry.

Born Carlo Lorenzini in 1826 in Tuscany, Italy, he adopted the pen name Collodi and worked as a journalist and political satirist. His 1883 novel 'The Adventures of Pinocchio' follows the wooden puppet’s quest to become a real boy and explores themes of morality, honesty, and redemption. Collodi’s vivid storytelling and collaboration with illustrator Enrico Mazzanti captivated readers around the world. The book’s blend of fantasy and moral lesson made it a cornerstone of children’s literature, inspiring countless adaptations. Collodi died in 1890, but his creation continues to enchant new generations.

Jūkichi Yagi (1898–1927) was a Japanese poet of the Taishō and early Shōwa periods. His work is characterized by its simple, lyrical style and reflective exploration of nature and spirituality. Beginning his literary career as a student, he published poems that resonated with ordinary life and the beauty of the natural world. Yagi's writing was deeply influenced by his personal faith and contemplative outlook. Despite his career being cut short by illness, his poetic legacy continues to inspire readers and writers alike.

Arkady Gaidar (1904–1941) was a Soviet-era journalist who gained fame as a writer of youth-oriented adventure novels. Born Arkady Golikov, he served as a front-line correspondent during the Russian Civil War before turning to fiction. His best-known work, "Timur and His Squad", inspired the Timur movement and emphasized teamwork, courage, and social responsibility. Gaidar's stories, including "School" and "Blue Cup", blended action with moral lessons, resonating with young readers. He died in an aviation accident during World War II, but his books remain classics of Soviet children's literature.

Edwin Savage was born in England in 1862 and was ordained in the Church of England after theological training. He served in various parishes, earning a reputation for compassionate pastoral care and community outreach. Savage authored several books and articles on Christian living, theology, and practical faith, which became popular among both clergy and laity. His writings emphasized the importance of spiritual discipline, charitable action, and church involvement in social issues. He delivered numerous sermons that were published and distributed to support parish ministries across the country. Savage also lectured at theological colleges, shaping the training of young clergy. He passed away in 1947, leaving behind a body of religious literature that continued to inspire Anglican communities.

Nikos Kazantzakis was born in 1883 on the island of Crete and studied philosophy at the University of Athens. He traveled extensively across Europe and the Middle East, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures and spiritual traditions. His novel 'Zorba the Greek' (1946) became a global phenomenon and was later adapted into a celebrated film and musical. Kazantzakis’s works, such as 'Christ Recrucified' and 'The Last Temptation of Christ,' explore existential themes, faith, and the human quest for meaning. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature multiple times but never won, and some of his writings were censored by the Greek Orthodox Church. Kazantzakis also served as a diplomat and translator, and he received honorary doctorates from several universities. He died in 1957, yet his literary legacy endures as a cornerstone of modern Greek letters.

Bidia Dandaron was a prominent Buddhist teacher, translator, and author in Soviet Russia. Born in 1914 near Lake Baikal, he became a student of the Kadampa tradition and studied Tibetan Buddhism in depth. Dandaron founded informal study groups in Moscow, sharing translations of key Buddhist texts with fellow practitioners. His writings explored the intersection of Eastern spirituality and Western philosophy, making complex doctrines accessible. Arrested in 1972 during a crackdown on religious activity, he died in prison in 1974. His legacy endures through students who preserved his manuscripts and teachings. Dandaron is celebrated for reviving Buddhist scholarship in an atheistic state.

Eknath Easwaran was an Indian-born educator and spiritual teacher who moved to the United States in 1959. He founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation in California and taught meditation and spiritual practices based on Indian traditions. Easwaran authored over 25 books, including English translations of the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and the Dhammapada, making them accessible to Western audiences. His works sold millions of copies worldwide and his practical spiritual program has been adopted by people of various backgrounds. He taught meditation by passage memorization and emphasized the universal message of love and selfless service. Easwaran's teachings continue to inspire spiritual and educational communities around the world. He passed away in 1999 at the age of 89.

Tony Hillerman authored over 20 novels, including the acclaimed 'Leaphorn & Chee' series, blending suspense with rich Southwestern landscapes. His works introduced readers to Navajo culture and traditions, drawing praise for their respectful and authentic portrayal. Before turning to fiction, Hillerman worked as a journalist and served as a foreign correspondent during World War II. He later taught journalism and creative writing, mentoring aspiring writers at the University of California. Hillerman's novels have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been adapted for film and television.

Born in 1946, Doug Ireland began his career as a student activist before turning to journalism. He wrote for publications such as The Nation, The American Prospect, and The International Herald Tribune. Ireland reported from Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, offering critical analysis of authoritarian regimes. He launched the online platform Mondialité to discuss global justice and human rights issues. His incisive articles and books challenged both corporate power and government oppression. Ireland’s provocative voice influenced debates on democracy and human rights. His legacy endures through his commitment to fearless journalism and global activism.

Emerging in the 1970s, Ali Ashraf Darvishian drew on his rural upbringing to craft stories that illuminated the struggles of the working class. His lyrical prose and social insights earned him acclaim both in Iran and abroad. As a professor of Persian literature, he taught at the University of Tehran and mentored a new generation of writers. Darvishian founded creative writing workshops that became models for nurturing literary talent. His books, translated into multiple languages, remain enduring landmarks of modern Persian fiction. He also championed educational initiatives for underprivileged youth throughout his career.