Susan Coolidge

Born Sarah Chauncey Woolsey in Cleveland, Ohio, on January 29, 1835, she wrote under the pen name Susan Coolidge. She came from a prominent New England family and later became known as an American author of children’s books, poems, and essays.

Her most famous work is What Katy Did (1872), a novel that helped define her reputation and introduced readers to one of the best-known girls in classic children’s literature. She went on to write more books about Katy as well as many other stories for young readers, often noted for their spirited, natural characters.

Woolsey died on April 9, 1905, in Newport, Rhode Island. More than a century later, her work is still remembered for its charm, moral warmth, and easy connection with childhood.