Crownfield, Gertrude

Marguerite de Angeli was an American writer and illustrator celebrated for her children's books, which earned her a Newbery Award. Born in Michigan in 1889, she developed her artistic talents early, pursuing music before transitioning to illustration and writing. De Angeli authored and illustrated twenty-eight books and illustrated many more for other writers, often drawing inspiration from her own life and the diverse communities she encountered. Her work frequently explored themes of cultural heritage, prejudice, and the shared humanity of common people, aiming to foster understanding and respect.

Her personal life involved marriage to violinist John Dailey de Angeli, with whom she had six children. The family moved frequently across various locations in the American West and Pennsylvania. De Angeli began her professional illustration career in the 1920s, contributing to magazines and books. Her first book was published in 1935, and she continued to produce acclaimed works until her later years. She passed away in 1987 at the age of 98, leaving behind a significant body of work that championed empathy and diversity.

Marguerite de Angeli's illustrations were created using a variety of mediums, including charcoal, pen and ink, oils, and watercolors. Early in her career, she also utilized lithography. Many of her books are set in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, reflecting the regional influence on her artistic output, though her settings were not exclusively limited to this area. Her visual storytelling often captured the essence of the communities and characters she portrayed.

A central theme in de Angeli's work was the exploration and depiction of traditions and the rich cultural diversity of ordinary people, who were often overlooked. She frequently addressed sensitive topics, such as the experiences of African American children facing racial prejudice, the aspirations of Polish mine workers, and the lives of various ethnic and traditional groups, including Mennonites, the Amish, and Quakers involved in the Underground Railroad. Her books consistently carried an underlying message promoting tolerance, care, consideration, and respect, emphasizing the fundamental sameness of all people.

De Angeli received significant recognition for her contributions to children's literature. Her 1946 book, 'Bright April,' was notably the first children's book to address racial prejudice. She was honored twice as a Caldecott Honor Book illustrator, for 'Yonie Wondernose' (1945) and 'Book of Nursery and Mother Goose Rhymes' (1955). Her most prestigious award was the 1950 Newbery Medal for 'The Door in the Wall.' Additional accolades include a Newbery Honor mention for 'Black Fox of Lorne' (1957) and the Regina Medal (1968). Her hometown library was renamed in her honor in 1981.