June 28

Born in 1503 in Florence into a noble family. He studied law and entered papal service as a diplomat. His most famous work, 'Il Galateo', codified social manners and refined conduct. He also wrote Latin poetry and engaged in literary criticism of his contemporaries. Appointed archbishop of Benevento, he combined ecclesiastical duties with literary pursuits. He died in 1556, leaving a lasting influence on European etiquette and letters.

Born in 1604 in Durlach, in the Margraviate of Baden. Trained in theology and languages at the University of Giessen before turning to music. He served as court secretary and later chamber musician to Duke Albert Frederick of Prussia in Königsberg. Albert published a series of songbooks titled "Arien und Kantaten" combining Italianate musical style with German texts. His works were influential in the development of German Baroque secular music and song traditions. An accomplished poet as well, he often wrote his own lyrics to accompany his compositions. He died in 1651, leaving a body of work still studied for its lyrical beauty and historical importance.

Emmanuel Rhoides was a prominent Greek journalist, novelist, and critic known for his sharp wit and satirical style. His most famous work, 'The Papess Joanne', challenged conventional religious narratives and sparked widespread debate in Greece. Rhoides also founded and edited influential periodicals, shaping public opinion during a transformative era in Greek history. His essays and literary critiques contributed to the development of modern Greek prose and journalism. Rhoides's bold voice and critical insights left a lasting mark on Greek letters and intellectual life.

John Boyle O'Reilly was an Irish poet, journalist, and novelist who was transported to Australia as a convict before escaping to the United States. In America, he became a leading editor for the Boston Pilot newspaper and an advocate for Irish freedom. O'Reilly's poetry and prose celebrated Irish culture and criticized British rule, inspiring expatriate and home-based nationalists alike. He also wrote fiction that highlighted social issues and immigrant experiences. His passionate writing and public speaking helped galvanize support for Irish independence during the 19th century.

Luigi Pirandello was an influential Italian writer whose works explored themes of identity, reality, and illusion. He is renowned for his plays, such as 'Six Characters in Search of an Author', which broke theatrical conventions and pioneered meta-theatre. Pirandello also penned novels, short stories, and poetry, showcasing his versatility across literary forms. In 1934, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature for his bold narrative techniques and profound insights into the human psyche. His legacy endures in both literature and theater, inspiring generations of writers and directors.

Born in 1891 in Worcester, Massachusetts, Forbes studied at Wellesley College. She authored the Pulitzer Prize–winning biography 'Paul Revere and the World He Lived In'. Her children's novel 'Johnny Tremain' earned the Newbery Medal in 1944 and became a classic. Forbes combined meticulous historical research with engaging storytelling in both fiction and nonfiction. She passed away in 1968, leaving a lasting influence on American historical literature.

Eric Ambler (1909–1998) is often regarded as the father of modern espionage fiction. His novels, including The Mask of Dimitrios and Journey into Fear, introduced a realistic and morally complex approach to spy narratives. Ambler’s works were adapted into successful films, and he himself wrote screenplays, notably contributing to Alfred Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much. His crisp prose, intricate plots, and emphasis on character motivation influenced generations of thriller writers. Ambler’s legacy endures in both literature and cinema as a benchmark for suspense storytelling.

Born in 1917, A. E. Hotchner began his writing career as a journalist and novelist. He was a close friend of Ernest Hemingway and penned the acclaimed biography “Papa Hemingway.” In the 1950s and 60s, he wrote several successful plays and teleplays for stage and television. Later, he co-founded the food company Newman's Own with actor Paul Newman, directing its philanthropic mission. Hotchner continued publishing memoirs and novels into his later years, leaving a legacy as a versatile writer and humanitarian.

Born in 1927, Correlli Barnett specialized in the study of British industrial, military, and economic history. His landmark book 'The Collapse of British Power' argued that cultural and strategic missteps led to Britain's waning global influence. Barnett served as Professor of War Studies at King's College London and wrote extensively on European affairs. His provocative insights challenged conventional narratives and sparked debates about national identity and policy. Throughout his career, he was celebrated for his rigorous scholarship and clear, engaging prose.

Born in 1928, Patrick Hemingway spent much of his life in East Africa managing family ranches and working as a wildlife biologist. He edited and preserved many of his father Ernest Hemingway's unpublished works. Patrick authored books and articles about African wildlife and conservation practices. He served as an advisor for wildlife preservation projects in Kenya and the United States. His unique perspective bridges literary heritage and hands-on conservation.

Harold Evans (1928–2020) was a prominent journalist who served as editor of The Sunday Times from 1967 to 1981. Under his leadership, the paper exposed the Thalidomide scandal and doggedly pursued stories on miscarriages of justice, winning multiple awards. Evans later wrote critically acclaimed books on topics ranging from war crimes to Winston Churchill. He also held editorial positions at The Times and The Atlantic Monthly. A passionate advocate for press freedom, Evans taught journalism and wrote extensively on media ethics.

Bette Greene was born on June 28, 1934, in Memphis, Tennessee. She gained widespread acclaim with her debut novel, "Summer of My German Soldier," published in 1973, which tackled issues of prejudice and friendship during World War II. Her works often focused on the struggles of young protagonists confronting social injustice. Greene's compassionate storytelling earned her numerous awards and a dedicated readership. Throughout her career, she published more than a dozen novels, many of which remain staples in school curricula. She passed away in 2020, leaving a legacy of empathy and courage in modern young adult literature.