Mary Mapes Dodge

Biography

Mary Mapes Dodge (1831–1905) wrote beloved works for young readers, including the enduring Hans Brinker; or, The Silver Skates, and she nurtured generations of children through her editorship of St. Nicholas Magazine. Her stories celebrated courage, imagination, and the everyday heroism of ordinary youth.

She believed strongly in encouraging young writers and readers, and her magazine became a model for literary excellence in children’s publishing. Dodge’s gentle yet ambitious spirit continues to inspire families and storytellers alike.