Edith Nesbit (married name Edith Bland; 15 August 1858 – 4 May 1924) was an

English writer and poet, who published her books for children under the pen name E.
Nesbit. She is best known for her imaginative and enchanting stories that have
captivated generations of readers.

Here are some key points about Edith Nesbit:

1. Early Life and Travels:

○ Edith Nesbit was born in London, England in 1858.
○ Her father, John Collis Nesbit, was an agricultural chemist, but he
passed away when Edith was only four years old.
○ Due to her sister Mary’s ill health, the family traveled extensively during
Edith’s childhood. They lived in various places including Brighton,
Buckinghamshire, France, Spain, and Germany.
○ The family settled for a few years at Halstead Hall in north-west Kent,
which later inspired her famous novel The Railway Children.
2. Marriage and Family Life:
○ At the age of 18, Edith met the bank clerk Hubert Bland, who was three
years older than her.
○ Despite a tumultuous relationship, they married in 1880. Their marriage
faced challenges due to Hubert’s involvement with other women.
○ Edith adopted two children from Hubert’s previous relationships:
Rosamund Edith Nesbit Hamilton and John Oliver Wentworth Bland.
○ She also had three biological children with Hubert: Paul Cyril Bland,
Mary Iris Bland, and Fabian Bland.
3. Literary Career:
○ Edith Nesbit wrote or collaborated on more than 60 books for children.
○ Her works are characterized by their magical elements, adventurous
plots, and relatable child protagonists.
○ Some of her notable works include:
■ The Story of the Treasure Seekers
■ The Railway Children
■ Five Children and It
■ The Book of Dragons
4. Political Activism and Fabian Society:
○ Nesbit was not only a writer but also a political activist.
○ She co-founded the Fabian Society, a socialist organization that later
became affiliated with the Labour Party.
5. Legacy:
○ Edith Nesbit’s stories continue to be beloved by readers of all ages.
○ Her ability to blend fantasy with everyday life has left a lasting impact on
children’s literature.