Deborah Heiligman
Deborah Heiligman
A Prolific Children's Author and Biographer
Full Name and Common Aliases
Deborah Heiligman is a renowned American author of children's books, best known for her meticulously researched biographies that bring historical figures to life. Her full name is Deborah Lynn Heiligman.
Birth and Death Dates
Deborah Heiligman was born on October 27, 1956.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Heiligman holds American nationality and works as a children's author, specializing in nonfiction biographies for middle-grade readers.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in New York City, Deborah Heiligman developed a passion for history and storytelling from an early age. Her interest in the past was sparked by her parents, who encouraged her to explore museums and historical sites throughout the city. This exposure laid the foundation for her future career as a biographer.
Heiligman attended New York University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. She later pursued graduate studies at Columbia University's Teachers College, earning a Master of Science in Education.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout her career, Heiligman has achieved numerous accolades for her work. Her book "David A. Adler's The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree" was selected as a Notable Social Studies Trade Book by the National Council for the Social Studies.
However, it is her meticulously researched biographies that have garnered the most attention and acclaim. Heiligman's commitment to accuracy and nuance has earned her multiple awards from organizations such as the Children's Book Council of Australia and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Deborah Heiligman's notable works include:
"Soldier X", a historical novel about a soldier who enlists in the Continental Army during the American Revolution.
"Beatrix Potter: The Designing Fairy", which showcases the author's talent for bringing to life the stories of famous women throughout history.
* "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Story of Love and Survival", a biographical novel about Charles Darwin and his wife Emma.
Impact and Legacy
Deborah Heiligman's impact on children's literature is undeniable. Her commitment to accuracy, nuance, and storytelling has inspired a new generation of readers to explore the complexities of history. By bringing historical figures to life in an engaging and accessible way, Heiligman has helped readers develop empathy and understanding for those who shaped the world we live in today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Deborah Heiligman is widely quoted and remembered for her dedication to creating high-quality biographies that inspire young readers. Her meticulous research and attention to detail have earned her a reputation as one of the most respected children's authors working today.
Quotes by Deborah Heiligman
Deborah Heiligman's insights on:
Who a person becomes later in life, how he lives, how he dies, cloud’s people’s memories of him, spinning and skewing-distorting-their portraits of him as a child. But we will draw Vincent as clearly as we can using not only impressions but also strong lines, sharp details. A picture will emerge.
My heart has often been too full to speak.′ -Emma to husband Charles on her gratitude for ’the cheerful and affectionate looks you have given me when I know you have been miserably uncomfortable.
I wish you knew how I value you; and what an inexpressible blessing it is to have one whom one can always trust, one always the same, always ready to give comfort, sympathy and the best advice. God bless you, my dear, you are too good for me.′ -Charles to Emma, 1859.
Uncle Cor once had asked Vincent if he would feel anything for a woman or a girl who was beautiful, 'but I said I would have more feeling for and would prefer to be involved with one who was ugly or old or impoverished or in some way unhappy, who has acquired understanding and a soul through experience of life and trial and error, or sorrow.'-Vincent Van Gogh
