
Jean Craighead George was an influential American author known for her prolific contributions to children's and young adult literature, having penned over one hundred books. Her most notable works include the Newbery Medal-winning 'Julie of the Wolves,' which tells the story of a young Inuit girl who survives in the Alaskan wilderness, and 'My Side of the Mountain,' a tale of a boy who learns to live in harmony with nature. George's writing often centered on themes of the environment and the natural world, reflecting her deep appreciation for wildlife and ecological awareness. In addition to her fiction, George authored guides on cooking with wild foods and published an autobiography, 'Journey Inward,' which offered insights into her life and creative process. Her dedication to children's literature earned her recognition as a U.S. nominee for the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1964, highlighting her impact on the genre. Through her engaging storytelling and commitment to environmental themes, Jean Craighead George left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire young readers and advocates for nature conservation.
“Be you writer or reader, it is very pleasant to run away in a book.”
“Fortunately, the sun has a wonderfully glorious habit of rising every morning”
“I must say this now about that first fire. It was magic. Out of dead tinder and grass and sticks came a live warm light. It cracked and snapped and smoked and filled the woods with brightness. It lighted the trees and made them warm and friendly. It stood tall and bright and held back the night.”