Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849–1924) was a British-American novelist and playwright, renowned for her children's books that have endured as timeless classics. Born in Manchester, England, she emigrated to the United States in her youth. She achieved literary success with works such as Little Lord Fauntleroy and, most notably, The Secret Garden, published in 1911. Her writing blends sensitivity, imagination, and a deep faith in the ability of children to grow and heal through love and nature.