Margery Williams Bianco
Biography
Margery Williams Bianco, born Margery Williams, on July 22, 1881, in London, England, was an acclaimed British-American author known for her timeless children's book, "The Velveteen Rabbit." Growing up in a creative and literary household, Margery developed a deep love for storytelling and writing from a young age.
After marrying Francisco Bianco, an American writer, Margery moved to the United States in 1914 and became a naturalized citizen. The couple settled in the bustling city of New York, where Margery continued to pursue her passion for writing while raising her two children.
It was in 1922 that Margery Williams Bianco penned her most famous work, "The Velveteen Rabbit," a heartwarming tale that has captivated generations of readers. The story of a toy rabbit yearning to become real through the love of his owner struck a chord with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Despite facing initial rejections from publishers who deemed the story too melancholic for children, Margery persevered, eventually finding a publisher who recognized the timeless beauty and emotional depth of her narrative. "The Velveteen Rabbit" was first published in 1922 and has since become a beloved classic in children's literature.
Margery Williams Bianco's writing style was characterized by its tender and emotive quality, with a focus on themes of love, imagination, and the transformative power of relationships. Her ability to infuse inanimate objects with profound emotions and depth of character set her apart as a storyteller of rare talent.
Throughout her career, Margery continued to write novels, short stories, and plays, garnering critical acclaim for the sincerity and poignancy of her writing. While "The Velveteen Rabbit" remains her most celebrated work, her other contributions to literature are equally deserving of praise.
As a pioneering female author in a male-dominated industry, Margery Williams Bianco paved the way for future generations of women writers. Her ability to craft narratives that resonate with both children and adults alike solidified her status as a literary icon whose influence endures to this day.
Margery Williams Bianco passed away on September 4, 1944, leaving behind a rich legacy of storytelling that continues to enchant readers around the world. Her enduring contribution to children's literature has ensured that her name will be remembered for generations to come, cherished for the heartfelt stories that continue to inspire and delight audiences of all ages.
Quotes
- Real isn't how you are made,' said the Skin Horse. 'It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.''Does it hurt?' asked the Rabbit. 'Sometimes,' said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. 'When you are Real you don't mind being hurt.' 'Does it happen all at once, like being wound up,' he asked, 'or bit by bit?' 'It doesn't happen all at once,' said the Skin Horse. 'You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.
- He didn't mind how he looked to other people, because the nursery magic had made him Real, and when you are Real shabbiness doesn't matter.
