Francis C. (Francis Channing) Woodworth

Francis Channing Woodworth was an American writer, printer, and clergyman born in Colchester, Connecticut, in 1812. He was a nephew of poet Samuel Woodworth, began working as a printer, and later studied for the ministry before ill health led him away from regular pastoral work.

He became best known for writing for children and families, often using the names Uncle Frank and Theodore Thinker. His books and story collections aimed to entertain while teaching kindness, industry, and good character, and they helped make him a familiar name in mid-19th-century juvenile literature.

Woodworth died on June 5, 1859. Among the works associated with him are Stories About Animals, Stories About Birds, The Peddler's Boy; Or, I'll Be Somebody, and The Diving Bell; Or, Pearls to be Sought for.