Fanny Fern
Personal Information
Description
Fanny Fern, born Sara Payson Willis, was an American newspaper columnist, humorist, novelist, and author of children's stories.
Books
Ruth Hall and other writings
When Ruth Hall was originally published in 1855, it caused a sensation. In it, Fanny Fern (Sara Payson Willis Parton) portrays a mid-nineteenth-century woman who realizes the American Dream solely on her own becoming the incarnation of the American individualist-regarded at that time as a role designed exclusively for men. Based on the author's life, the novel reflects her spirit of practical feminism-that a woman was only truly independent when she was financially independent.
Caper-sauce
Short essays on a variety of topics by the nation's first female newspaper columnist
Ginger-snaps
Vignettes of nineteenth century life, chiefly in New England, covering such topics as dinner parties, the bride's new house, mourning attire, choosing presents, female clerks, English notions about women, women as speakers, servants, hospitality, men and their clothes, travel, family life and children.