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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Born in 1832
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Witty writer of classics like "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn", known for humor and social commentary.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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".
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Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and playwright celebrated for rural New England-inspired works that explore human nature, morality, and the American experience.
