Happy birthday, translator Naomi Lewis

It is the birthday of English writer and literary critic Naomi Lewis (1911), who is best known for translating Hans Christian Andersen stories, including The Snow Queen, The Little Mermaid, The Wild Swans, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, and Thumbelina, among many others. Lewis translated some 21 books of tales by Andersen, the Brothers Grimm, and other storytellers. She also retold Aesop fables, stories from The Arabian Nights and stories from Andersen. She was especially admired for her introductions that helped young readers understand the background behind the tales and the people who wrote them. She wrote poetry as well her last poetry book was The Mardi Gras Cat (1993). Her first book, A Visit to Mrs. Wilcox (1957) was meant for adults but she found her true calling in writing for children.