Kris Waldherr

Robert D. San Souci (1946-2014) was an American author primarily known for his adaptations of folktales for young readers. He frequently collaborated with his illustrator brother, Daniel San Souci. San Souci's approach to adapting stories was noted for its "impeccable scholarship and a fluid storytelling style." His work encompassed picture books, chapter books, and original stories within the horror and fantasy genres, as well as non-fiction for various age groups. He also contributed to magazines and presented at educational events. His retelling of the Mulan legend served as the basis for the Disney film.

San Souci's academic background included studies in folklore, mythology, and world religions, which informed his literary output. He began writing in school and pursued creative writing and literature in college. His career path also included roles as a bookseller, editor, and reviewer before he focused on writing. He expressed a passion for observing people and language, drawing inspiration for his stories from his travels and research into local legends and history. San Souci passed away in 2014 at the age of 68 due to a head injury from a fall.

Robert D. San Souci dedicated much of his career to retelling folktales, infusing them with scholarly rigor and a captivating narrative flow. His adaptations, such as "The Samurai's Daughter," "The Enchanted Tapestry," and "The Talking Eggs," were recognized for their quality. He also developed popular series like "Short and Shivery" and "Dare to Be Scared," which offered chilling tales for younger audiences. A significant aspect of his work was the emphasis placed on strong female protagonists, reflecting a modern sensibility within traditional narratives. His retelling of the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to fight in her father's place, was notably adapted for the Disney animated film "Mulan."

San Souci's literary career was shaped by his academic pursuits, including graduate studies in folklore, myths, and world religions. This foundation allowed him to approach his retellings with a deep understanding of their cultural and historical contexts. His early experiences writing for school publications and his college coursework in creative writing and literature provided a strong base for his storytelling. He often cited his travels and observations of everyday life, particularly the rhythms of language used by different people, as sources of inspiration. This blend of academic study and keen observation enabled him to create authentic and engaging narratives that resonated with readers of all ages.

Beyond his acclaimed folktale adaptations, Robert D. San Souci also explored original works in the horror and fantasy genres, demonstrating a versatile creative spirit. His output included non-fiction pieces aimed at both children and adults, broadening his impact. Prior to establishing himself as a full-time author, San Souci gained diverse professional experience as a bookseller, editor, advertising copywriter, and theater and film reviewer. This varied background likely contributed to his polished prose and insightful approach to storytelling. He was also a regular contributor to several magazines, sharing his writing across different platforms.

“In 1978, my first book, The Legend of Scarface, was published and illustrated by my younger brother, Daniel San Souci. The book was highly acclaimed. I was lucky to have an artist/illustrator in the family – it's great working with Dan”

“I love to travel by bus. I can sit and stare out the window and simply observe. I love to listen for the flow and rhythm of the language that different people use”