Florence Montgomery facts for kids

Florence Montgomery (1843–1923) was an English writer. She wrote novels for adults and stories for children. Her book Misunderstood (1869) was very popular. Famous writers like Lewis Carroll and Vladimir Nabokov enjoyed it. Her stories often had a religious feel and were set in fancy society.

Her Early Life

Florence Harriet Montgomery was born in Chelsea, London. This was on January 17, 1843. She was one of seven children. Her father, Admiral Alexander Leslie Montgomery, was also a Member of Parliament (MP). This means he helped make laws for the country. Her family lived at Hampton Court.

Florence first practiced telling stories to her younger brothers and sisters. A writer named G. J. Whyte-Melville saw one of her stories. It was printed for a charity event. The story was about a girl whose mother died from scarlet fever. He told Florence that her story should be published. So, "A Very Simple Story" was released in 1867. Her cousin, Sibyl Montgomery, drew pictures for it.

Her Books and Stories

Florence Montgomery wrote different kinds of stories. Some were for children, meaning kids could read them. Others were about children. These were for adults. She wanted adults to understand and appreciate children more.

One of her most famous books was Misunderstood (1869). This story is about a father who doesn't quite understand his son. The son is thoughtful and loving, but he dies young. Later, in 1873, a special edition of Misunderstood came out. It had drawings by George du Maurier. He was an artist who also admired the book.

Another book, Seaforth (1878), was a longer novel for adults. Most of her books had a religious tone. They were often set among wealthy people. Her books sold well even into the 1900s. However, by the end of the 20th century, they were not as popular.

Interestingly, Vladimir Nabokov, a famous writer, remembered Misunderstood fondly. He said it was the first English book his mother read to him. He felt very emotional about the main character, Humphrey.

Many of Montgomery's novels were translated. People in Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Russia could read them. Misunderstood was even made into two movies. One was an Italian film called Incompreso in 1966. The other was an American film called Misunderstood in 1984.

Her Personal Life

Florence Montgomery never got married. She also did not have any children. She lived her whole life in her family home in Belgravia, London. She lived there with two of her sisters, who also never married.

Her Death

Florence Montgomery passed away on October 8, 1923.

List of Her Works

More Information

• You can read a good copy of Misunderstood online here: Retrieved 11 January 2016.

See also

In Spanish: Florence Montgomery para niños