December 28

Antoine Furetière was born in 1619 and became a prolific writer and scholar in Paris. He contributed to the creation of the world’s first universal dictionary, aiming to catalogue the French language comprehensively. Elected to the Académie française in 1662, he later clashed with its members over his dictionary project. His work was posthumously published despite official opposition, influencing future lexicographers. Furetière also wrote plays and satirical works, showcasing his literary versatility. He died in 1688, leaving a lasting legacy in French lexicography and literature.

Born in Stockbridge, Massachusetts in 1789, Catharine Maria Sedgwick was the daughter of prominent lawyer Theodore Sedgwick. She published her first novel, "A New-England Tale", in 1822 and went on to write critically acclaimed works like "Hope Leslie". Sedgwick's novels often featured strong female protagonists navigating social expectations and moral dilemmas. Her writing contributed to the development of American literature and offered early commentary on women's independence. A prolific author, she continued publishing into her later years, leaving a lasting impact on 19th-century fiction.

Carol Ryrie Brink was an American novelist and playwright whose work captured the wonder of childhood and frontier life. Her 1935 novel 'Caddie Woodlawn,' based on her grandmother’s experiences, received the Newbery Medal in 1936 and became a classic of children's literature. Brink wrote over 30 books for children and adults, blending historical authenticity with engaging storytelling. She also penned plays and short stories, demonstrating versatility across genres. Born in Moscow, Idaho, she drew inspiration from her Appalachian roots and Northwest upbringing. Brink taught creative writing workshops and lectured nationwide, inspiring aspiring writers. Her novels remain in print, continuing to delight readers with tales of courage, family, and adventure.

Shen Congwen was born in Fenghuang, Hunan, and became one of the most influential Chinese writers of the 20th century. He is best known for his novel 'Border Town', which captures the rhythms and traditions of rural communities. Shen's narrative style blended folklore, personal reflection, and social commentary. After the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Shen taught literature and history at various universities. He continued to write essays, translations, and research on ethnic minority cultures. His work has been celebrated for its humanism and poetic realism, influencing generations of writers. Despite periods of political hardship, Shen's legacy endures as a foundational figure in modern Chinese letters.

Emily Cheney Neville was born in 1919 and began her writing career later in life, publishing her first novel at age 39. She won the Newbery Medal in 1964 for "It's Like This, Cat" and was praised for her authentic dialogue. Her works are celebrated for their emotional depth and keen insight into teenage life. Over her career, she authored several novels and short stories that remain classics in young adult literature. Neville's clear, empathetic storytelling influenced generations of readers and writers. She passed away in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of influential family-centered narratives.

Stan Lee was born in 1922 and began his comics career at Timely Comics, the precursor to Marvel Comics, in 1939. As Editor-in-Chief and later publisher, he collaborated with artists like Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko to create characters such as Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man, and the Hulk. Lee revolutionized comic book storytelling by introducing flawed, relatable heroes and serialized narratives. He made cameo appearances in dozens of Marvel films, becoming a beloved figure to fans worldwide. Lee championed creative freedom and diversity in comics, helping turn Marvel into a global entertainment empire. He passed away in 2018, leaving behind a lasting legacy on popular culture and multimedia franchises.

Born in 1932 in General Villegas, Argentina, Manuel Puig studied anthropology and literature before turning to fiction. His novel Kiss of the Spider Woman (1976) gained international acclaim for its experimental structure and exploration of gender, politics, and sexuality. Puig’s work often blends cinematic dialogue, stream-of-consciousness, and popular culture references. Exiled during Argentina’s military dictatorship, he lived in Mexico and Spain, where he continued to write acclaimed novels and plays. Other notable works include Boquitas pintadas and Pubis Angelical. Puig’s contributions to Latin American literature have influenced generations of writers. He died in 1990, leaving a bold and unorthodox literary legacy.

Max Hastings is an English journalist, war correspondent, and historian. He reported on conflicts in Vietnam, the Middle East, and the Falklands before becoming editor of the Evening Standard and later the Daily Telegraph. Hastings authored acclaimed books on World War II such as 'Overlord' and 'Armageddon', combining vivid narrative with rigorous scholarship. He won the Duff Cooper Prize in 2012 for his book 'Retribution'. His work offers deep insights into the human experience of war and its global impact.