Meet the Austins

Madeleine L'Engle, the celebrated American writer, left an indelible mark on the world of literature, particularly in the realm of young adult fiction. Her most renowned work, "A Wrinkle in Time," not only captivated readers but also earned her the prestigious Newbery Medal. This groundbreaking novel was just the beginning of a captivating series, including "A Wind in the Door," "A Swiftly Tilting Planet," and "Many Waters," which showcased her exceptional storytelling.

What set L'Engle apart was her profound fascination with modern science, seamlessly weaving scientific concepts into her narratives. In "A Wrinkle in Time," the enigmatic tesseract played a central role, while mitochondrial DNA took the spotlight in "A Wind in the Door," and organ regeneration featured prominently in "The Arm of the Starfish." Her ability to incorporate complex scientific ideas into her stories made her a beloved author among both young and mature readers.

Born on November 29th, 1918, Madeleine L'Engle spent her formative years in the bustling metropolis of New York City. While her academic performance may not have been stellar, her heart and soul were dedicated to writing stories, poems, and personal journals. This unwavering passion laid the foundation for her literary career.

At the age of 12, she embarked on a transformative journey to the French Alps with her parents, where she attended an English boarding school. Surprisingly, her love for writing not only persisted but thrived in this new environment. Her high school years at Ashley Hall in Charleston, South Carolina, further nurtured her creative spirit. Summertime escapades with her mother in a charming beach cottage along the Florida coast added to the rich tapestry of her experiences.

Her academic pursuit led her to Smith College, where she delved into the world of English literature under the guidance of inspiring educators. Her time at Smith was marked by a deep exploration of literary classics and an unwavering commitment to her creative writing. Graduating with honors, she moved to a Greenwich Village apartment in New York City, where she found work in the theater. This career path offered her both the financial stability and the flexible schedule needed to pursue her true calling—writing.

During these years in New York City, she published her first two novels, "A Small Rain" and "Ilsa." Fate smiled upon her when she met Hugh Franklin, who would become her husband, while working as an understudy in Anton Chekov's "The Cherry Orchard." Their love story unfolded against the backdrop of "The Joyous Season," and they welcomed a baby girl into their lives.

With her growing family, Madeleine L'Engle relocated to the idyllic Connecticut countryside, where she and her husband transformed a dormant general store into a thriving business, breathing life into a small dairy farm village. Eventually, they returned to the bustling city with three children in tow, allowing Hugh to rekindle his acting career. Their country retreat, Crosswicks, remained a cherished haven for summer escapes.

As time flowed, Madeleine continued to write, amassing an impressive catalog of over 60 books. Her association with the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine saw her serve as a librarian and maintain an office for over three decades. After Hugh's passing in 1986, it was her writing and speaking engagements that provided solace and purpose.

Having witnessed the transition from the 20th century to the 21st, Madeleine L'Engle's literary legacy endures. Her love for family, friends, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren remains a source of joy in her life. With an unquenchable passion for writing, she continues to craft stories that resonate with readers, leaving an indomitable mark on the world of literature.