Carolyn Wells
1862 -1942
Carolyn Wells Biography
Carolyn Wells (June 18, 1862 – March 26, 1942) was a prolific American writer, celebrated for her extensive body of work that includes mysteries, children's literature, and humorous poetry. Born in Rahway, New Jersey, Wells was the daughter of William Edmund and Anna Potter Wells. Her early life was marked by a passion for reading, which she supplemented with a formal education.
After completing her schooling, Wells worked as a librarian for the Rahway Library Association. She began her literary career with the publication of At the Sign of the Sphinx (1896), a collection of literary charades. This was followed by The Jingle Book and The Story of Betty (1899), and a book of verse titled Idle Idyls (1900). Over her career, Wells authored a total of 170 books, initially focusing on poetry, humor, and children's stories.
A turning point in her career came when she encountered Anna Katharine Green's mystery novel That Affair Next Door (1897), which inspired her to delve into the mystery genre. Wells is perhaps best known for her Fleming Stone Detective Stories, with The Clue (1909) being among the most notable. Her contributions to the mystery genre include the creation of other detectives such as Pennington "Penny" Wise and Kenneth Carlisle.
In 1918, Wells married Hadwin Houghton, associated with the Houghton-Mifflin publishing family; he passed away in 1919. Wells continued her literary pursuits until her death on March 26, 1942, in New York City. She bequeathed her extensive collection of poetry volumes, including a significant compilation of Walt Whitman's works, to the Library of Congress.
Trivia About Carolyn Wells
- Wells wrote under the pseudonym Rowland Wright.
- She experienced hearing loss at the age of six due to scarlet fever.
- Wells was known for her parodies and anthologies of humorous verse.
- She edited The Best American Mystery Stories of the Year in 1931 and 1932.
Famous Quotes by Carolyn Wells
- "A guilty conscience is the mother of invention."
- "Of two evils choose the prettier."
- "Actions lie louder than words."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Carolyn Wells?
Carolyn Wells was an American author and poet, renowned for her mysteries, children's books, and humorous verse. She authored 170 books during her prolific career.
What is Carolyn Wells known for?
She is best known for her mystery novels, particularly the Fleming Stone Detective Stories, and her contributions to children's literature and humorous poetry.
Did Carolyn Wells write under any pseudonyms?
Yes, she occasionally wrote under the pseudonym Rowland Wright.
Related Literary Movements
Carolyn Wells was associated with the Golden Age of Detective Fiction, contributing significantly to the mystery genre. Her work also reflects elements of children's literature and humorous verse prevalent in late 19th and early 20th-century American literature.
Carolyn Wells books
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