Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849-1924) was a British-American novelist and playwright best known for beloved children's classics like The Secret Garden, A Little Princess, and Little Lord Fauntleroy. Born in Manchester, England, she immigrated with her family to the United States after her father's death and grew up in Tennessee. She began writing at a young age to help support her family, selling stories to magazines. Her work often explores themes of resilience, kindness, and the healing power of nature and friendship. Burnett achieved international success during her lifetime and became one of the most popular children's authors of her era. She later split her time between the U.S. and England, and many of her stories reflect both cultures.

Her books remain widely read and frequently adapted for film and stage.