John H. Gould

Born in 1908, he grew up partly in Maine and began reporting while still in school. After graduating from Bowdoin College in 1931, he built a career in newspapers and publishing that eventually reached readers well beyond New England.

He is best known as an American humorist, essayist, and columnist who wrote for The Christian Science Monitor for more than sixty years. Writing from his farm in Lisbon Falls, Maine, he became known for a friendly, observant style rooted in rural life, and he also wrote around thirty books.

Alongside his national newspaper work, he edited and published a local weekly paper and worked in radio, too. His writing is remembered for its plainspoken charm, affection for Maine communities, and sharp but gentle humor.