Cecilia Viets Jamison

Cecilia Viets Jamison

American writer, author of books for children
Date of Birth: 01.01.1837
Country: USA

Content:
  1. Childhood and Education
  2. Literary Debut and Influence
  3. Marriage and Family Life
  4. Children's Literature Success
  5. Russian Reception
  6. Literary Criticism
  7. Legacy and Impact

Childhood and Education

Alice Caldwell Rice was born in Boston, where she spent her childhood with her parents. She later pursued painting studies in Paris, showcasing her artistic talents.

Literary Debut and Influence

In 1871, Rice made her literary debut with the novel "Something to do," reportedly with the encouragement of Henry Longfellow. Her focus on the lives of female workers reflected the social issues of the time.

Marriage and Family Life

In 1878, Rice married Samuel Jamison, a lawyer. They settled in New Orleans, where she continued to write.

Children's Literature Success

Rice's greatest acclaim came from her children's books. Her first two notable works were "Lady Jane" (1889) and "Toinette's Philip" (1894), both sentimental stories about orphaned children. These books were influenced by the writings of Harriet Beecher-Stow.

Russian Reception

In Russia, "Lady Jane" was first published in 1892, followed by an adapted version in 1927. It was reissued several times in the 1990s. "Toinette's Philip" appeared in Russian in 1915.

Literary Criticism

Soviet literary critics viewed Rice's works as "imbued with the ideology of the bourgeois American milieu" and not aligned with Soviet educational principles.

Legacy and Impact

Alice Caldwell Rice's children's books continue to be read and enjoyed by readers of all ages. Her stories explore themes of social justice, compassion, and the importance of family and community.

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