Georgene Faulkner

Georgene Faulkner was an influential American writer and storyteller known for her contributions to children's literature in the early twentieth century. Born in Chicago, she pursued her education at the University of Chicago's School of Education, which was at the forefront of educational reform. Faulkner's passion for storytelling flourished when she took charge of the kindergarten at the Faulkner School for Girls, founded by her sister Elizabeth in 1909. Her engaging storytelling style, which included dressing as Mrs. Santa Claus to delight children with Christmas tales, quickly earned her the affectionate title of 'the Story Lady.' In addition to her work with children, Faulkner showcased her storytelling talents to adult audiences, notably entertaining American troops in Europe during World War I. Her impact extended into the realm of broadcasting when she began her radio career in 1922, hosting programs such as 'The Story Lady' and 'Air Castle' on prominent Chicago stations WMAQ and WGN. Faulkner also contributed articles on children's topics to the Chicago Tribune, further solidifying her role as a key figure in early American children's literature and storytelling. Her legacy endures through her innovative approach to engaging young audiences and her dedication to the art of storytelling.