Don Palmer

Mildred A. Wirt Benson (1905–2002) was an American author and journalist whose work shaped classic children's series fiction. She wrote more than 130 books over a long career and is especially remembered for writing many of the original Nancy Drew mysteries under the house name Carolyn Keene.

Don Palmer was one of her personal pseudonyms. Under that name, she wrote the Boy Scout Explorers books, adding the same fast-moving storytelling and adventure that marked much of her fiction for young readers.

Beyond her fiction, Benson also worked as a journalist, and her writing life stretched across decades. Her reputation has lasted because her books gave young readers capable, curious characters and a real feeling of momentum and fun.