Enid Blyton

Date of Birth: August 11, 1897

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: November 28, 1968

Biography

Enid Blyton was a renowned British children’s writer, best known for her prolific output of children’s literature. She was born on August 11, 1897, in East Dulwich, South London, England. Blyton’s works have been among the world’s bestsellers since the 1930s, selling more than 600 million copies. She wrote on a wide range of topics including adventure, fantasy, mystery, and school stories. Some of her most famous series include “The Famous Five,” “The Secret Seven,” and “Noddy.” Blyton’s stories often featured children as the main characters and were known for their simple language and engaging plots, making them accessible to young readers. Blyton attended St. Christopher’s School in Beckenham and later went to the University of London to train as a teacher. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked as a teacher and a governess. Her first book, “Child Whispers,” a collection of poems, was published in 1922. Over the years, Blyton became a household name, despite facing criticism for the perceived simplicity and repetitive nature of her writing. Nonetheless, her books have remained popular among children around the world. Enid Blyton married Major Hugh Alexander Pollock in 1924, with whom she had two daughters, Gillian and Imogen. The marriage ended in divorce in 1942, and she later married Kenneth Fraser Darrell Waters, a surgeon. Blyton continued to write prolifically until her health began to decline in the 1960s. She passed away on November 28, 1968, in Hampstead, London.

5 Interesting Facts about Enid Blyton

1. Enid Blyton wrote over 750 books and 4,500 short stories during her career.

2. Her book series “The Famous Five” has been adapted into numerous television series, films, and stage plays.

3. Blyton’s works have been translated into more than 90 languages.

4. Despite her popularity, some of her works have been criticized for being outdated and for containing stereotypes.

5. She was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 1950 for her services to children’s literature.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Enid Blyton

1. “You must find time for reading, or surrender yourself to self-chosen ignorance.”

2. “There’s nothing more wonderful than being a child as long as you possibly can.”

3. “The best way to treat obstacles is to use them as stepping stones. Laugh at them, tread on them, and let them lead you to something better.”

4. “Somehow, one never gets to the end of the things one can learn about people.”

5. “My work in books, films, talks, and in schools all means that I try to make children understand that the world is a great adventure.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Enid Blyton’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around £50 million at the time of her death, adjusted for inflation.

Children

Enid Blyton had two daughters: 1. Gillian Mary Baverstock (1931–2007) – She became an advocate for her mother’s work and was involved in various literary events celebrating Enid Blyton’s legacy. 2. Imogen Mary Smallwood (born 1935) – She wrote a more critical memoir about her mother, titled “A Childhood at Green Hedges.”