F. D. (Frederick Douglas) How

Frederick Douglas How (1853–1936), often published as F. D. How, was an English writer remembered for a small but varied body of work. His books include Oxford, a lively portrait of the city for the Beautiful England series, and The Book of the Child, in which he reflects on how children think and experience the world.

He also wrote Bishop Walsham How: A Memoir, a biography of his father, the well-known Anglican bishop and hymn writer William Walsham How. That family connection helps explain the personal tone of some of his writing: he could move easily between descriptive travel writing, reflective nonfiction, and biographical work.

Today, How is mainly encountered through reprints and digital libraries rather than through a large modern readership. Still, his books remain appealing for their clear style, curiosity, and gentle way of noticing both character and place.