(born Aug. 11, 1897, London, Eng. — died Nov. 28, 1968, London) English children's writer. Trained as a schoolteacher, she published her first book, Child Whispers, in 1922. She went on to produce more than 600 children's books and numerous magazine articles. She is probably best known for several book series, including those featuring Noddy, the Famous Five, and the Secret Seven. Though often criticized for their stereotyped characters, simple writing style, and didactic moralism, her books were widely translated and remained internationally popular long after her death.