Ruth Sawyer

Ruth Sawyer

Ruth Sawyer was born on August 5th, 1880

Full Name: Ruth Sawyer
Place of Birth: Boston, Massachusetts
Profession: Author and Educator
Nationality: American
Born: August 5, 1880
Died: September 3, 1967
Notable Work: Roller Skates novel
Awards: Newbery Medal

Award-winning children's book author and educator, known for her imaginative and historically rich stories that transport readers to new worlds and foster a love of reading.

Written by: Grace Lee Grace Lee

Ruth Sawyer: The Beloved Storyteller and Newbery Medalist

Ruth Sawyer, a renowned American storyteller and writer, is best known for her captivating tales that have delighted readers of all ages. Her most notable achievement is winning the 1937 Newbery Medal for her novel Roller Skates, a testament to her remarkable storytelling prowess.

Early Life and Inspiration

Ruth Sawyer was born on August 5, 1880, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Francis Milton and Ethalinda Smith Sawyer. The youngest of five children, she was the only daughter in the family. Her early life was filled with the magic of storytelling, thanks to her Irish nanny, Joanna, who regaled her with tales of myths and legends. This sparked a lifelong passion in Sawyer for the art of storytelling.

Education and Career

Sawyer attended private school in New York City and later went on to study at the Garland Kindergarten Training School. In 1900, she traveled to Cuba, where she taught storytelling to teachers working with orphaned children. This experience led to a scholarship to Columbia University, where she studied storytelling and folk lore, earning her BS in education in 1904.

Her work in Cuba and her education at Columbia paved the way for a successful career as a storyteller and writer. Sawyer worked for the New York school system, sharing her stories with people from diverse backgrounds. In 1910, she initiated the first storytelling program for children at the New York Public Library, which became a hallmark of her career.

Literary Contributions

Sawyer's literary career spanned multiple genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and folk tales. Her novel The Year of Jubilo drew inspiration from her family's experiences living off the land in Maine. Her folk tale collections, which she gathered during her travels to Ireland and other countries, showcased her dedication to preserving cultural heritage.

Awards and Recognition

Legacy

Ruth Sawyer's contributions to literature and storytelling have left an indelible mark on the world of children's literature. Her dedication to preserving folk tales and promoting the art of storytelling has inspired generations of writers, educators, and storytellers. Her legacy continues to inspire us to cherish the power of stories and their ability to bring people together.

As Sawyer once said, "The art of storytelling is the oldest and most universal of human activities. It is the thread that binds humanity together." Her remarkable life and work are a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, and her legend will continue to captivate and inspire us for years to come.

Timeline
1880
Birth in Ohio
Ruth Sawyer was born on August 5, 1880, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, but grew up in Ohio.
1908
Teaching Career
Sawyer began her teaching career, which would span over 20 years and take her to various schools in the United States and Europe.
1923
Writing Debut
Sawyer published her first book, Patterns of the Past, marking the beginning of her successful writing career.
1939
Newbery Medal
Sawyer won the Newbery Medal for her novel Roller Skates, which told the story of a young girl growing up in New York City.
1970
Death in New York
Ruth Sawyer died on June 12, 1970, at the age of 89, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved childrens author and educator.
Ruth Sawyer

Ruth Sawyer Quiz

Ruth Sawyer's writing style is characterized by

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What kind of books did Ruth Sawyer write?
Ruth Sawyer wrote a range of books for children and adults, including novels, biographies, and historical fiction. Her works often explored themes of social justice and personal growth.
What was Ruth Sawyers teaching philosophy?
Ruth Sawyer was a dedicated educator who believed in the importance of storytelling and creative expression. She developed innovative teaching methods that emphasized student-centered learning.
What awards did Ruth Sawyer receive for her writing?
Ruth Sawyer received several awards for her writing, including the Newbery Medal for her novel Roller Skates.
How did Ruth Sawyers writing reflect her life experiences?
Ruth Sawyers writing often reflected her own life experiences, including her childhood in Ohio and her teaching career. Her works are characterized by their authenticity and emotional depth.
What legacy did Ruth Sawyer leave in the field of education?
Ruth Sawyer left a lasting legacy in the field of education, inspiring generations of teachers and students with her innovative approach to learning.

Related People:

Louisa May Alcott

Born in 1832

Wrote novels and poems that explored themes of family, love, and social justice, most famously "Little Women", a timeless coming-of-age story.

Mark Twain

Born in 1835

Witty writer of classics like "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn", known for humor and social commentary.

Helen Keller

Born in 1880

A deaf and blind individual who learned to communicate and read, becoming a renowned writer and advocate for people with disabilities. Known for her remarkable achievements and inspiring story.

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Born in 1867

Author of the beloved Little House on the Prairie series, which chronicles her childhood adventures on the American frontier, entertaining and educating generations of readers.

Beatrix Potter

Born in 1866

Creator of beloved children's tales featuring anthropomorphic animals, charmingly illustrated and full of whimsy, transporting readers to idyllic English countryside settings.

Judy Blume

86 Years Old

A beloved author of children's and young adult books, known for tackling tough topics like puberty, identity, and relationships in relatable and accessible ways. Her books have been a staple in many childhoods and continue to resonate with readers today.

Dr. Seuss

Born in 1904

Beloved creator of whimsical stories and characters that spark imagination and creativity in children and adults alike, known for iconic works like "The Cat in the Hat" and "Green Eggs and Ham".

Robert Frost

Born in 1874

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and playwright celebrated for rural New England-inspired works that explore human nature, morality, and the American experience.