George Cain facts for kids

George Cain (October 27, 1943 – October 23, 2010) was an African-American author. He is well-known for writing his novel Blueschild Baby, which was published in 1970. This book was based on parts of his own life.

Early Life and Education

George Cain was born on October 27, 1943. His birth name was George Maurice Hopkins. Later, he used the pen name (a special name an author uses) Africa Cain. Eventually, he went back to using his first name, George.

He grew up in a part of Manhattan called Hell's Kitchen. After finishing the McBurney School, he moved with his family to Teaneck, New Jersey. He attended McBurney School because he received a scholarship, which helped pay for his education.

George was also a talented basketball player. His skills helped him get a scholarship to Iona College. However, he left college before finishing his third year and traveled to the American Southwest.

Writing Blueschild Baby

After his travels, George Cain moved to Brooklyn. There, he began writing his famous novel, Blueschild Baby. The book tells the story of a family from the middle class who move to the suburbs. It describes the challenges they faced in their new surroundings.

Many people thought Blueschild Baby was a very important book. A reviewer from The New York Times, Addison Gayle, Jr., praised it highly. He said it was a major work of fiction by an African-American author. He also noted that the book used language and symbols that were special to the Black community.

Later Life and Legacy

Even though his first book was very successful, George Cain never finished a second book. He had planned to write a sequel to Blueschild Baby.

George Cain passed away on October 23, 2010, in Manhattan. He was 66 years old. He died due to health problems related to kidney disease. He was survived by his two daughters, one son, and five grandchildren.