George Selden

George Selden (1929–1989) was an American author best known for his beloved children's novel "The Cricket in Times Square," which earned a Newbery Honor in 1961. This timeless classic launched a series of seven books, including "Tucker's Countryside" and "The Old Meadow," captivating generations of readers with its charming blend of fantasy and everyday life. Selden's inspiration for the story came from hearing a cricket chirp in the Times Square subway station, a moment he described as pivotal in shaping the tale. His works often explored themes of friendship and adventure through the lens of anthropomorphic animal characters, imbuing them with genuine emotions and relatable experiences.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Selden graduated from Yale University, where he contributed to the literary magazine and became a member of the Elizabethan Club. He furthered his studies at Columbia University and later spent a year in Rome as a Fulbright scholar. Throughout his career, Selden authored more than fifteen books and two plays, leaving a lasting legacy in children's literature. His ability to weave the extraordinary into the ordinary resonated deeply with readers, and his work continues to be celebrated, evidenced by the 1973 animated film adaptation of "The Cricket in Times Square."