Lloyd Alexander

Lloyd Alexander was an influential American author, best known for his fantasy novels for young adults and children. He was born in 1924 in a western suburb of Philadelphia called Drexel Hill and grew up during the Great Depression. Alexander's father worked as a stockbroker, but the family struggled financially. As a result, Alexander had to go to work as a messenger boy instead of attending college.

After serving in the army during World War II, Alexander traveled to Wales for military training. This experience made a significant impression on him, and he would later use it as inspiration for his fantasy series, The Chronicles of Prydain. After being discharged from the army, Alexander attended the University of Paris, where he met his wife, Janine. The couple eventually returned to the United States, and Alexander began his writing career in earnest.

Alexander's first novels were written for adults, but it wasn't until he began writing for young people that he found success. His breakthrough came with the publication of The Book of Three, the first book in The Chronicles of Prydain series. The series went on to win numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal for the final book, The High King. Alexander's other notable works include the Vesper Holly series and the Westmark Trilogy.

Throughout his career, Alexander was known for his imaginative storytelling and richly detailed worlds. He drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including Welsh mythology, ancient China, and Cameroonian folktales. Despite facing numerous rejections early in his career, Alexander persisted and became one of the most respected and beloved authors of his time. He passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of cherished books and a profound impact on the world of children's literature.