August 26

Born in Dresden in 1791, Körner studied law and philosophy before answering the call to fight Napoleon's forces. He joined the Lützow Free Corps in 1813 and penned stirring poems that inspired German volunteers. His dramatic play "Zriny" and other literary works captured the spirit of resistance and nationalism. Körner fell in battle at the age of 22, becoming a symbol of youthful patriotism. His poems were posthumously published and celebrated throughout the German states. His fusion of literature and military service cemented his legacy as both a writer and a warrior.

Born in 1890 in Prague, Franz Werfel became an influential voice among German-speaking writers. He authored novels, plays, and poems that delved into themes of morality, spirituality, and social justice. His acclaimed novel The Forty Days of Musa Dagh depicts the Armenian community's resistance during the genocide. Forced into exile by the Nazis, Werfel continued writing passionately in Europe and the United States. His literature endures for its profound empathy and unflinching examination of human suffering.

Born in 1894 in Ottawa, W. W. E. Ross was a pioneer in geophysical research, studying seismic wave propagation. He conducted groundbreaking work with the Geological Survey of Canada on earthquake measurement techniques. Simultaneously, Ross emerged as one of Canada's first modernist poets, influenced by imagism. He published collections like Irises and Capacity, known for their precise imagery and brevity. Ross's dual career left an enduring mark on both Canadian science and literary modernism.

Hans Augusto Rey (1898–1977) and his wife Margret Rey introduced Curious George in 1941, capturing hearts with tales of a mischievous monkey and his adventures. Fleeing Paris on bicycles during World War II, the Reys carried the manuscript for what would become a classic series of children's books. H. A. Rey's simple yet expressive illustrations and engaging storytelling style set a new standard for early readers. He went on to illustrate star charts and write books about astronomy for young audiences. Rey's work has been translated into dozens of languages and remains a staple of children's literature worldwide.

Mika Waltari (1908–1979) authored over 30 novels, plays, and short stories during a prolific career. His 1945 novel "The Egyptian" became a global bestseller and was translated into more than 30 languages. Waltari's works often combined meticulous historical research with rich storytelling, spanning settings from ancient Egypt to modern Finland. He also translated classic literature into Finnish and served as a literature professor. Awarded the State Prize for Literature, Waltari remains one of Finland's most celebrated writers.

Irving Stone was born in 1903 in San Francisco and earned acclaim for his richly researched biographical novels. His 1934 work Lust for Life chronicled the life of artist Vincent van Gogh and became a bestseller. Stone's meticulous study of documentary sources and letters allowed him to bring historical figures vividly to life. He followed with The Agony and the Ecstasy, a dramatic portrayal of Michelangelo that inspired a major motion picture. Over his career, Stone wrote biographies of figures including Marie Curie, Sigmund Freud, and Eleanor Roosevelt. His narrative style combined scholarly detail with compelling storytelling, appealing to both academics and general readers. Irving Stone died on August 26, 1989, leaving behind a legacy of influential non-fiction literature.

Born in Antwerp in 1925, Bob de Moor joined Hergé's Studios in 1947 and became a key contributor to the Tintin series. Renowned for his precise 'ligne claire' drawing style, he retouched and co-drew many classic adventures. Aside from Hergé's work, he authored original graphic novels showcasing his talent and storytelling. His art combined technical accuracy with whimsical charm, earning admiration from comic enthusiasts. Throughout his career, he balanced collaborative projects with solo creations, shaping Franco-Belgian comics. De Moor's influence is celebrated by artists who continue to study and emulate his meticulous technique.

Born in Liverpool in 1934, John Brunner became a prolific writer of science fiction novels and short stories. His landmark novel 'Stand on Zanzibar' won the Hugo Award for its innovative narrative structure and social commentary. Throughout his career, he tackled themes such as ecology, population dynamics, and the impact of technology on humanity. Brunner's poetic sensibility enriched his prose, blending lyrical passages with speculative ideas. He authored over 50 novels and numerous short stories, influencing the cyberpunk and dystopian subgenres. His works remain studied for their foresight and critical insights into contemporary issues.

Born in 1925, Dominick Dunne began his career in Hollywood before transitioning to investigative journalism. Writing for publications like Vanity Fair, he dissected the interplay of wealth, power, and crime, bringing readers into the heart of notorious trials such as O.J. Simpson’s. His bestselling novels, including ‘The Two Mrs. Grenvilles,’ blended fiction with real-world intrigue. Dunne hosted ‘Dominick Dunne’s Power, Privilege & Justice,’ offering courtroom commentary that captivated television audiences. His fearless storytelling exposed the dark side of fame and influence.

Born in 1929, George Band gained fame as a member of the 1955 British expedition that made the first ascent of Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. His meticulous approach to high-altitude climbing and team leadership set new standards in Himalayan mountaineering. After retiring from active expeditions, Band wrote extensively about his experiences, publishing memoirs and guidebooks that influenced generations of climbers. He served as President of the Alpine Club, promoting safe and ethical practices. Band’s legacy endures in both mountaineering history and literature.

Peter Bacon Hales (1950–2014) was an American historian, photographer, and author. He explored the cultural significance of the American landscape, contributing seminal scholarship to the field of art history and photography. His photographic work documented the evolution of rural and urban environments, blending artistic vision with historical analysis. Hales authored several influential books and articles that shaped discussions in art history and cultural studies. His interdisciplinary approach left a significant mark on both academic research and the visual arts.

Chūsei Sone (1937–2014) was a Japanese film director, producer, and screenwriter. He crafted a diverse body of work that challenged genre conventions and showcased his distinctive visual style. Through his productions, Sone supported creative talents and pushed the boundaries of Japanese cinema. His screenplays combined complex characters with themes reflecting societal change in post-war Japan. Sone's innovative contributions continue to inspire filmmakers and cinephiles around the world.