Elizabeth Goudge

Date of Birth: April 24, 1900

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: April 1, 1984

Biography

Elizabeth de Beauchamp Goudge was an English writer known for her delightful and deeply thoughtful novels, short stories, and children’s books. Born in the cathedral city of Wells, Somerset, she spent much of her childhood moving around due to her father’s career as a clergyman and theologian. Her love for storytelling was kindled at an early age, influenced by the beautiful environments and rich histories of the places she lived. Goudge attended Grassendale School in Southbourne and later trained in art at the University of Reading. Her first novel, “Island Magic,” was published in 1934. However, it was her novel “Green Dolphin Street” (1944), which won the Literary Guild Award in America, that established her as a respected author. This work was later adapted into a successful film by MGM. Goudge’s writing is often characterized by its spiritual depth, intricate character development, and evocative descriptions of place. She continued to write prolifically throughout her life, with notable works including “The Little White Horse,” which won the Carnegie Medal for children’s literature in 1946, and “The Dean’s Watch,” a novel set in a cathedral city reminiscent of Wells. Goudge never married and lived a quiet life, deeply rooted in her faith and her love for nature and animals. She passed away in 1984 in her cottage in Peppard Common, Oxfordshire.

5 Interesting Facts about Elizabeth Goudge

1. Elizabeth Goudge won the prestigious Carnegie Medal for her children’s book “The Little White Horse” in 1946.

2. Her novel “Green Dolphin Street” was adapted into a successful film in 1947, starring Lana Turner and Van Heflin.

3. She was deeply influenced by her Christian faith, which is a recurring theme in her works.

4. Elizabeth Goudge never married and lived a quiet, solitary life, dedicated to her writing.

5. J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, cited “The Little White Horse” as one of her favorite books during her childhood.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Elizabeth Goudge

1. “Most of the basic material a writer works with is acquired before the age of fifteen.”

2. “Faith given back to us after a bitter struggle is always stronger than if it had never been challenged.”

3. “Happiness is not a possession to be prized, it is a quality of thought, a state of mind.”

4. “Nothing is ever really lost to us as long as we remember it.”

5. “A house that does not have one worn, comfy chair in it is soulless.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Elizabeth Goudge’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but she was considered a successful author with significant book sales and a notable literary reputation during her lifetime.