December 09

Born in London, John Milton studied at Christ's College, Cambridge, where he excelled in classics and poetry. A fervent republican, he served as Latin Secretary under Oliver Cromwell, crafting diplomatic correspondence. After the Restoration forced him from public life and left him blind, he composed 'Paradise Lost' and other major works by dictation. His writings, including 'Areopagitica', defended freedom of speech and religious nonconformity. Milton's mastery of blank verse and theological depth influenced generations of writers. He died in 1674, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the English language's greatest poets.

Richard Lovelace emerged as a leading voice of the Cavalier poets, blending chivalric idealism with lyrical grace. His celebrated poems, including 'To Lucasta, Going to the Wars' and 'To Althea, from Prison', capture themes of honor, love, and loyalty to the crown. He served as a royalist soldier during the English Civil War, experiences that deeply influenced his verse. Lovelace's work is admired for its melodic style, emotional depth, and subtle blend of personal and political concerns. Despite spending time in prison for his beliefs, he continued to write and publish poetry that resonated with his contemporaries and later generations.

Born in 1845 in Eatonton, Georgia, Joel Chandler Harris began his career as a newspaper reporter.\nHe joined the Atlanta Constitution, where he collected African American folktales told by former slaves.\nHarris published these tales as the 'Uncle Remus' stories, blending dialect and folklore in popular collections like 'Uncle Remus: His Songs and His Sayings' (1880).\nHis work sparked both acclaim for preserving oral traditions and criticism over racial representation.\nHarris later served as editor of a major Atlanta newspaper before retiring to his plantation home.\nHe died in 1908, remembered for his influence on American literature and folklore studies.

Born in Patras, Xenopoulos became one of Greece’s most influential literary figures around the turn of the 20th century. He edited the newspaper Estia and founded literary magazines, shaping public taste and supporting young writers. His extensive body of work includes more than a hundred novels and numerous plays exploring social issues and human psychology. Xenopoulos’s realistic style and keen observation of Athenian life earned him both popular success and critical acclaim. He mentored emerging Greek authors and remained active in literary circles until his death in 1951.

Born in Lundar, Manitoba, to Icelandic immigrant parents, Salverson drew on her heritage. Her debut novel 'Their Lost Border' earned critical acclaim in 1920. She continued to depict family struggles, cultural identity, and assimilation. As a pioneering female author, she brought immigrant narratives to Canadian literature. Salverson also wrote articles and short stories promoting multicultural understanding. Her work remains influential in studies of Canadian immigrant literature.

Born in Minsk, Bahdanovič wrote his first poems at the age of fourteen. His collection 'Vianok' (A Wreath) is celebrated for its lyrical style and national themes. As a critic, he championed the Belarusian language during the Russian Empire's repression. Despite dying of tuberculosis at 26, he produced influential works like 'Sunflowers.' His poetry inspired a cultural revival and solidified a Belarusian literary identity. Bahdanovič is commemorated as a national literary hero.

Born in Paris in 1899, Jean de Brunhoff published the first Babar book in 1931, inspired by stories told to his children. His elegant illustrations and gentle storytelling introduced readers to the adventures of Babar and his animal kingdom. The Babar series became an international phenomenon, spawning books, animations, and merchandise. Brunhoff's fusion of whimsical art and moral tales captivated audiences of all ages. Tragically, he died of tuberculosis in 1937, but his son Laurent continued the Babar legacy. Today, Babar remains a cultural icon cherished by generations worldwide.

Born in Fiume (now Rijeka) in 1901, Ödön von Horváth wrote plays that satirized Weimar-era society. His works—including 'Tales from the Vienna Woods' and 'Youth Without God'—explored themes of alienation and morality. Horváth's concise language and dark humor made him a unique voice in European literature. He also penned novels and screenplays that reflected the turbulent interwar period. Tragically, he died in an accidental fall in 1938 while escaping a rainstorm. His enduring works continue to be performed and studied for their poignant critique of modern life.

Dalton Trumbo was a prolific writer whose career spanned novels, plays, and screenplays. He earned acclaim for films such as 'Kitty Foyle' and later penned classics like 'Roman Holiday' and 'Spartacus'. In 1947, Trumbo refused to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee and was subsequently blacklisted for over ten years. Despite working under pseudonyms, he won two Academy Awards during his exile. His courageous stand against censorship made him a symbol of artistic freedom. Trumbo's legacy was cemented when he finally received on-screen credit for his work in the late 1960s, inspiring future generations of writers.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1915, Eloise Jarvis McGraw developed a passion for storytelling at an early age. She wrote historical fiction, mystery, and fantasy, often blending rich detail with fast-paced plots. Her novels 'Moccasin Trail' and 'The Golden Goblet' both received Newbery Honors, cementing her reputation in children's literature. McGraw also collaborated on works such as 'The Rundown Train' and contributed to short story collections. Her books have been praised for their vivid settings and well-drawn characters, appealing to readers of all ages. She continued writing into her later years and passed away in 2000, leaving behind a diverse and beloved body of work.

Jan Křesadlo was a psychologist and writer who produced novels, poetry, and translations in multiple languages. He was notable for inventing and writing in constructed languages, showcasing his linguistic creativity. Křesadlo's works often blended psychological insight with imaginative storytelling and cultural commentary. His magnum opus, 'Requiem for a Girl', exemplifies his depth in both narrative and philosophical exploration. He remains a unique figure in literature for his scholarly approach to language and narrative forms.

Joan Blos was an American writer and educator renowned for her contributions to children's literature. Her novel 'A Gathering of Days' won the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1979 for its evocative portrayal of 19th-century life. Blos served as a professor of English and children's literature at the State University of New York, where she inspired future educators and writers. She authored more than twenty books, blending historical research with compelling narratives for young readers. Through her teaching and writing, Blos had a lasting impact on literacy and the appreciation of historical storytelling in education.