Barbara Willard

Barbara Willard (1909-1994), a British historical/children's author, was born in Sussex, England, daughter of a Shakespearean actor. She made her first stage appearance at the age of eleven and after completion of her formal schooling, she continued acting. In addition, she began writing film scripts and novels for adults. In the late 1950's Miss Willard turned to writing for children, fulfilling a life-long desire. Her favorite genre was historical fiction. Since she had been an only child until the age of twelve, many of her nearly sixty works reflect a fascination with large families. She enjoyed over fifty years of writing for both children and adults.

Very little about the author was written during her lifetime, because of her private nature. She died in her native land in 1994.