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Irene Hunt facts for kids

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For the American actress, see Irene Hunt (actress).

Irene Hunt (born May 18, 1907 – died May 18, 2001) was an American writer especially known for her historical novels. These are stories set in the past. She was almost chosen for the famous Newbery Medal for her first book, Across Five Aprils. Then, she won the medal for her second book, Up a Road Slowly. Because of her great work as a children's writer, she was nominated in 1974 for the international Hans Christian Andersen Award. This is one of the highest honors for people who create children's books.

Irene Hunt's Life Story

Irene Hunt was born in Pontiac, Illinois, on May 18, 1907. Her parents were Franklin P. and Sarah Land Hunt. Her family moved to Newton, Illinois, soon after she was born. Sadly, her father died when Irene was only seven years old. After this, her family moved again to live closer to her grandparents.

Irene's childhood was sometimes a bit lonely. However, she had a very special bond with her grandfather. He used to tell her many stories about his own childhood, especially about the time of the American Civil War. These stories likely inspired her later writing.

Irene went to college and earned her master's degree in Minneapolis. She started her career as a teacher, teaching English and French in public schools in Illinois. Later, she taught psychology at the University of South Dakota. But she eventually returned to teaching younger students. She became a director of language arts for elementary and junior high schools in Illinois.

After she retired from teaching in 1969, Irene Hunt spent all her time writing. She was 57 years old when her first novel, Across Five Aprils, was published in 1964. This book became very popular and was even chosen as a Newbery Honor Book. Irene herself said it was her favorite among all the books she wrote. People who read her books often say that she was great at creating interesting characters and telling a good story. She was also very good at mixing real history with made-up events. Irene Hunt believed in "courage, love, and mercy," and she tried to show these ideas in her books.

Her next novel, Up a Road Slowly, won the important 1967 Newbery Medal. This was a big achievement for her.

Irene Hunt passed away on her 94th birthday, May 18, 2001.

Books by Irene Hunt

  • Across Five Aprils, published by Follett, 1964.
  • Up a Road Slowly, published by Follett, 1966.
  • Trail of Apple Blossoms, illustrated by Don Bolognese, published by Follett, 1968.
  • No Promises in the Wind, published by Follett, 1970.
  • The Lottery Rose: a novel, published by Scribner, 1976.
  • William: a novel, published by Scribner, 1978.
  • Claws of a Young Century: a novel, published by Scribner, 1980.
  • The Everlasting Hills, published by Scribner, 1985.

Awards and Honors

Irene Hunt received many awards for her wonderful books:

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