October 19

Born in 1784, James Henry Leigh Hunt co-founded and edited literary journals such as The Examiner, championing young poets like Keats and Shelley. His vibrant poetry and essays often challenged social norms and critiqued political figures, leading to his imprisonment for libel in his youth. Hunt’s memoirs and travel writings showcased his conversational style and keen observations. He maintained friendships with major Romantic figures and offered support during their creative struggles. His critical works helped define the aesthetics of the period and broadened public appreciation of Romantic literature. Leigh Hunt died in 1859, remembered as a spirited advocate for literary innovation.

Born in 1879 in Tennessee, Emma Bell Miles captured the culture and beauty of the Appalachian Mountains through her writing and art. She published essays, poetry, and short stories in national magazines such as Ladies Home Journal. Her notable works include the Spirit of the Mountains and Book of the People, which combined vivid prose with her own illustrations. Miles documented the struggles and resilience of mountain communities at a time when their voices were rarely heard. Despite facing financial hardship, she left a lasting legacy in regional American literature and art before her untimely death in 1919.

Miguel Ángel Asturias was born in 1899 in Guatemala City and became a leading voice in Latin American literature. He served in diplomatic posts while writing experimental works that blended indigenous myths with modernist techniques. His novel El Señor Presidente is acclaimed for its critique of authoritarianism and influence on the magic realism genre. Asturias also published poetry and plays, capturing the cultural and political struggles of his homeland. In 1967 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognizing his innovative contributions to world literature.

Paul Robert was a French lexicographer and publisher best known for creating the 'Dictionnaire alphabétique et analogique de la langue française'. First published in 1953, his dictionary introduced innovative cross-referencing methods that enriched language learning and usage. He founded Le Robert publishing house, which became a leading authority in French language references. Robert's work democratized access to comprehensive vocabulary resources and influenced subsequent generations of lexicographers. His dictionaries remain staples in schools, libraries, and homes across the francophone world.

Vinicius de Moraes was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1913. He emerged as a key figure in Brazil's bossa nova movement, co-writing classics like 'Garota de Ipanema'. Moraes blended poetry and music to capture the spirit of Brazilian culture. He authored over 20 plays and published several notable poetry collections. As a diplomat, he extended his creative influence internationally. His work continues to inspire musicians and writers around the world.

Ed Emberley (born 1931) has written and illustrated over 50 children's books, teaching generations to draw through his accessible step-by-step guides. His landmark Emberley Learning to Draw series has become a staple in homes and schools around the world. He received the 2003 Laura Ingalls Wilder Award for his lasting contributions to children's literature. Emberley's bold use of color and playful characters has inspired young artists everywhere. In addition to drawing books, he has created numerous picture books that combine engaging narratives with whimsical illustrations. His work continues to encourage creativity and imagination in children.

John le Carré (1931–2020), born David Cornwell, served in British intelligence agencies MI5 and MI6 before turning to fiction. His novels, including The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, redefined the spy genre with their moral complexity and realism. Le Carré's protagonists often grapple with the costs of betrayal and loyalty during the Cold War. He won numerous awards and his works have been adapted into acclaimed films and television series. Beyond espionage thrillers, he wrote insightful critiques of contemporary politics. His literary legacy endures as a benchmark for spy fiction.

Andrew Vachss was an American lawyer and author who dedicated his career to protecting vulnerable children and writing hard-hitting crime fiction. He practiced law to represent survivors of abuse and served as a consultant to youth welfare organizations. Vachss authored the popular Burke series, featuring a vigilante investigator battling child exploitation. His novels combined social commentary with suspenseful storytelling and garnered a devoted following. He also wrote comic book scripts and short stories that explored themes of justice and moral responsibility. His dual roles as advocate and storyteller influenced both legal reforms and the crime fiction genre.

L. E. Modesitt Jr. is a prolific American author recognized for his extensive work in science fiction and fantasy literature. He debuted in 1984 and has since published over eighty novels, including the acclaimed Recluce Saga. Modesitt’s writing often explores themes of balance, governance, and environmental issues within richly crafted worlds. Drawing on his background in science and engineering, he creates believable settings and complex magic systems. In addition to novels, he has written short stories and poetry. His works have earned a dedicated global readership and praise for their thoughtful world-building and ethical depth.

Philip Pullman is an English writer born in Norwich in 1946. He began his career as an academic, teaching in schools and universities. Pullman's breakthrough came with the publication of Northern Lights (The Golden Compass) in 1995. The trilogy His Dark Materials earned critical acclaim, awards, and global readership. His work explores complex themes such as free will, theology, and the nature of consciousness. Pullman has written other series, including The Book of Dust, expanding his literary universe. His stories have been adapted into stage productions, films, and a television series.

James Howard Kunstler is an American author, social critic, and public speaker born in 1948. He gained prominence with his 1993 book The Geography of Nowhere, which examines the decline of American towns and cities. Kunstler's work focuses on suburban sprawl, environmental issues, and the impact of automobile-centered planning. He has written both nonfiction and dystopian fiction, often highlighting societal vulnerabilities. He hosts The KunstlerCast podcast and frequently appears on radio programs. His provocative style challenges conventional development models and encourages sustainable alternatives.

She won the Pulitzer Prize for Beat Reporting in 1992 for her work at The Sacramento Bee. Blum is the director of the Knight Science Journalism program at MIT. Her book 'The Poisoner's Handbook' became a bestseller and inspired a television series. She has authored several acclaimed works on toxicology and forensic science. Blum frequently lectures on science ethics and investigative reporting. Her writing makes complex scientific topics accessible to broad audiences.