Edward Sylvester Ellis

Edward Sylvester Ellis

Edward Sylvester Ellis
1840 -1916

Edward Sylvester Ellis Biography

Edward Sylvester Ellis (April 11, 1840 – June 20, 1916) was a prolific American author, educator, and journalist, best known for his adventure novels aimed at young readers. Born in Geneva, Ohio, Ellis moved to New Jersey at a young age, where he pursued his education and later became a teacher and school administrator. His passion for storytelling led him to write numerous books, many of which were published under various pseudonyms.

           

In 1860, at the age of 20, Ellis published his first and most successful book, Seth Jones, or the Captives of the Frontier, which became a bestseller and significantly boosted the popularity of dime novels. This success led to a contract with the publisher Beadle and Adams, for whom he wrote numerous works over the next three decades. Among his notable works is The Steam Man of the Prairies (1868), recognized as one of the earliest science fiction novels, featuring a steam-powered robot traversing the American West.

           

Throughout his career, Ellis authored over 200 books, including the popular Deerfoot series, which followed the adventures of a young Native American brave. His writings were characterized by exciting and action-packed stories that captivated young audiences and helped popularize the adventure genre in children's literature during the late 19th century. In addition to fiction, Ellis wrote biographies and historical works, contributing to both children's and adult literature.

           

Ellis passed away on June 20, 1916, at Cliff Island, Maine, leaving behind a legacy as a significant figure in American literature whose works continued to be read by young readers for generations.

           

Trivia About Edward Sylvester Ellis

  • Ellis wrote under numerous pseudonyms, including "James Fenimore Cooper Adams," "Captain Bruin Adams," and "Boynton M. Belknap."
  • His novel Seth Jones was reportedly one of President Abraham Lincoln's favorite stories.
  • Ellis's The Steam Man of the Prairies is considered one of the earliest science fiction novels, featuring a steam-powered mechanical man.
  • He served as a school principal and superintendent of schools in Trenton, New Jersey, before becoming a full-time writer.
           

Famous Quotes by Edward Sylvester Ellis

  • "The bravest are the tenderest—the loving are the daring."
  • "Adventure is the life of youth."
           

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Edward Sylvester Ellis?

Edward Sylvester Ellis was an American author, educator, and journalist, best known for his adventure novels for children and young adults, including Seth Jones and the Deerfoot series.

           

What are some of Edward S. Ellis's notable works?

Some of his notable works include Seth Jones, or the Captives of the Frontier (1860), The Steam Man of the Prairies (1868), and the Deerfoot series, which follows the adventures of a young Native American brave.

           

Under what pseudonyms did Ellis write?

Ellis wrote under various pseudonyms, including "James Fenimore Cooper Adams," "Captain Bruin Adams," "Boynton M. Belknap," and several others.

           

Related Literary Movements

Edward S. Ellis was associated with the dime novel phenomenon of the late 19th century, contributing significantly to the adventure genre in children's literature. His works also intersect with early science fiction, particularly with The Steam Man of the Prairies, which is considered one of the earliest examples of the genre.

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