Odell Shepard facts for kids

Odell Shepard (born July 22, 1884, died July 19, 1967) was an important American writer, teacher, and politician. He was born in Sterling, Illinois and passed away in New London, Connecticut. Odell Shepard served as the 86th Lieutenant Governor of Connecticut from 1941 to 1943. He also won a special award called the Pulitzer Prize in 1938 for one of his books.

Odell Shepard's Life and Career

Odell Shepard was born in Illinois. He went to Harvard University for his education. After graduating, he taught English at Yale University. From 1917 to 1946, he was a professor of English at Trinity College. He helped many students, including a poet named Abbie Huston Evans.

Shepard also worked on the writings of famous authors. He edited books by Henry David Thoreau, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Writing and the Pulitzer Prize

Odell Shepard wrote a biography about Bronson Alcott. Bronson Alcott was the father of the famous writer Louisa May Alcott. He was also a key figure in a way of thinking called Transcendentalism. This was a philosophical movement that focused on nature and self-reliance.

Shepard's book was titled Pedlar's Progress: The Life of Bronson Alcott. It was published in 1937. For this book, he won the 1938 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography. The Pulitzer Prize is a very important award for achievements in journalism, literature, and music.

Shepard's important papers and writings are kept at Trinity College. He passed away in 1967.

Awards and Recognition

Odell Shepard received several important awards for his work:

• The 1938 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography. He won this for his book Pedlar's Progress: The Life of Bronson Alcott. This award recognized his excellent writing and research.
• The Golden Rose Award. This award is given for poetry.