Jean Little facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jean Little, CM
Jean Little before delivering the 2016 Margaret Laurence Lecture in Toronto
Born	(1932-01-02)January 2, 1932 Formosa, Japan (now Taiwan)
Died	April 6, 2020(2020-04-06) (aged 88) Guelph, Ontario, Canada
Occupation	Writer
Nationality	Canadian
Genre	Children's fiction, memoir

Jean Little (born January 2, 1932 – died April 6, 2020) was a famous Canadian writer. She wrote more than 50 books, mostly for children. She also wrote two books about her own life, called Little by Little and Stars Come Out Within. Jean was partially blind from birth. She often had a special guide dog to help her. She was also a member of the Order of Canada, a high honour for Canadians.

Jean Little's Life and Career

Early Life and Education

Jean Little was born in Formosa (now Taiwan). Her parents, Flora and John Little, were Canadian doctors. They worked there as medical missionaries. In 1939, her family moved back to Canada. They settled in Guelph, Ontario, in 1940.

Even though Jean was legally blind from birth, she went to regular schools. She studied at the University of Toronto. There, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English.

Writing Journey and Awards

After teaching children with disabilities for several years, Jean started writing. Her first children's novel was Mine for Keeps. It was about a child with cerebral palsy. This book won an award and was published in 1962.

She went on to write over 50 books. These included novels, picture books, poetry, and short stories. Her book His Banner Over Me was inspired by her mother's childhood. Jean's books won many literary awards and were published all around the world.

Teaching and Honours

Jean Little also taught Children's Literature at the University of Guelph. She was a special professor in the English Department. She received six honorary degrees. She was also a Member of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest civilian honours. She also received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal. A school in Guelph, Ontario, is named Jean Little Public School in her honour.

Sharing Her Love for Books

Jean traveled widely to talk about reading and writing. She spoke to both adults and children. In 2004, she visited India. In 2006, she went to Bulgaria. In 2016, she gave an important lecture at the Canadian Writers Summit.

Later Years

In 2016, Jean lived in Guelph, Ontario. She lived with her sister, great-niece, and great-nephew. She continued to write using a special voice-activated computer. Her guide dog, Honey, often traveled with her. Jean Little passed away on April 6, 2020, at the age of 88.

Common Themes in Jean Little's Books

Jean Little's books often explored important themes.

• Children with Disabilities: Many of her books, like Mine for Keeps and From Anna, feature children with disabilities. They also show how society treated children with disabilities in the past.
• Adoption and Foster Care: Another common theme is adoption and foster care. Books like Home from Far and Willow and Twig explore these topics.
• Finding Family and Belonging: Her characters often find new homes and families. This might mean rediscovering their own family's importance. Or, it could mean creating a new family in a new situation.
• Resilience and Hope: While her novels sometimes touch on sad events, like illness or loss, they usually have positive endings. They show how strong and resilient children can be.

Books by Jean Little