Jane Langton facts for kids
Jane Gillson Langton (born December 30, 1922 – died December 22, 2018) was an American writer. She wrote books for children and exciting mystery novels. She also drew pictures for her own books.
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About Jane Langton
Jane Langton was born in Boston, Massachusetts. She loved learning! She studied stars, which is called astronomy, at Wellesley College and the University of Michigan. She earned a special degree in 1944. She also studied art history at the University of Michigan in 1945. Later, she earned another degree from Radcliffe College in 1948. She even studied art at the Boston Museum School from 1958 to 1959.
Her Amazing Books
In 1961, Jane Langton wrote and drew pictures for her first book for kids. It was called The Majesty of Grace. This story was about a young girl living during the Great Depression. This was a tough time in history when many people had little money. The girl in the story imagined she was actually the oldest daughter of King George VI. She even thought she would become the future Queen of England!
Langton later wrote two popular book series. One was for children, called The Hall Family Chronicles. The other was a series of mystery novels featuring a detective named Homer Kelly. She also wrote other stand-alone books and picture books.
Awards and Recognition
Many of Jane Langton's books received special awards. Her novel The Fledgling earned a Newbery Honor book. This is a very important award for children's literature. Her mystery novel Emily Dickinson is Dead was nominated for an Edgar Award. It also won a Nero Award. These are important awards for mystery books. Another book, The Face on the Wall, was chosen as an editors' favorite in 1998 by The Drood Review of Mystery.
Her Life in Massachusetts
Jane Langton lived in Lincoln, Massachusetts. This town was very close to Concord. Many of her novels were set in or around Concord. Her husband, Bill, passed away in 1997. Jane Langton had three adult sons named Chris, David, and Andy.
Later Years
Jane Langton passed away in December 2018. She was almost 96 years old. She died from a breathing illness.
