Author Bio: Marguerite de Angeli

One of my favorite children's authors, though less well-known than many, is Marguerite de Angeli. (March 14, 1889- Jun 16, 1987) She was born Marguerite Lofft, in Lapeer, Michigan- one of six children. By age 15 she was a professional contralto singer, paid one dollar a day! She soon withdrew from highschool to get more musical training.
In 1908, Marguerite Lofft met John Dailey de Angeli, known as Dai. They were married April 12, 1910. The Angelis lived in many locations across the west and mid-west of America, and finally settled in Pennsylvania, where they lived the remainder of their lives.
Among the many beloved books Marguerite wrote are:

The Door in the Wall

Yonie Wondernose

Thee, Hannah

The Lion in the Box

Skippack School

Henner's Lydia

Copper-toed Boots

Many of de Angeli's books were set in the Amish, Mennonite, and Quaker communities during the 19th, and early 20th centuries.
Besides writing a considerable number of books, Marguerite illustrated 28 of her books as well as numerous others. I have loved de Angeli's writing ever since Mama read Yonie Wondernose to me as a little girl. The style of the writing is sweet and simple. It reminds me almost of Louisa May Alcott's, if she had written for younger children. Have any of you read anything by Marguerite de Angeli? If so, what did you think?
I am absolutely dying to read her autobiography: Butter at the Old Price, but it's out of print, or at least our library doesn't know anything about it! :D -Rachel