Jean Craighead George Quotes

Powerful Jean Craighead George for Daily Growth

About Jean Craighead George

Jean Craighead George (1919-1995), an acclaimed American author, was born on October 14, 1919, in Washington D.C., the daughter of naturalist Stetson Johnston George and Mary Craighead George. Her love for nature and wildlife was nurtured from a young age, which significantly influenced her writing career. George graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor's degree in zoology in 1941. She worked as a field biologist and later as an editor at various publishing houses before fully dedicating herself to writing children's literature. Her debut book, "The Living Island" (1957), was followed by "My Side of the Mountain" (1959), a Newbery Honor Book that tells the story of a young boy named Sam Gribley who decides to live alone in the Catskill Mountains, befriending various wild animals. The book's themes of self-reliance and respect for nature resonated with many readers, making it a classic in children's literature. In 1971, George published "Juliet Takes a Breath," a novel that explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and sexuality, making it one of the first young adult novels to discuss these topics openly. However, it was George's second Newbery Medal winner, "Julie of the Wolves" (1972), that cemented her place in literary history. The book follows a 13-year-old Inupiat girl named Miyaxo who runs away from her home and survives by living with a pack of wolves in the Alaskan wilderness. Jean Craighead George's works, inspired by her deep love for nature and animals, continue to captivate readers worldwide. Her stories encourage empathy, respect for wildlife, and a sense of adventure that transcends age and cultural boundaries.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"A weed is simply a plant that grows where we don't want it."

This quote emphasizes the subjective nature of perception, particularly in regard to plants. It implies that what one person considers as a weed (an unwanted plant) may be seen by another as a valuable and desirable species. Ultimately, the label "weed" is not an intrinsic characteristic of a plant but rather depends on human intentions or preferences for a given location or circumstance.

"I have a great love for all things wild and free. I am happiest among nature—on a trail, on a mountain, in a boat, or underwater."

This quote by Jean Craighead George reflects her deep affection for the untamed wonders of nature. She finds joy and happiness in immersing herself in natural environments, be it walking on trails, climbing mountains, sailing, or exploring underwater realms. Her sentiment underscores a connection to nature that is essential, fulfilling, and defines her well-being.

"It takes time to become an overnight success."

This quote by Jean Craighead George emphasizes that true success, often perceived as 'overnight' due to its sudden visibility, is actually a result of persistent effort, dedication, and time invested in learning and honing one's craft or skills. It suggests that while the public recognition might seem swift, the journey to success is usually a long and gradual process, full of hard work, determination, and resilience.

"The world is one big, beautiful mystery and we are here to unravel it."

This quote by Jean Craighead George suggests that our purpose in life is to explore, discover, and understand the wonders of the world around us. It emphasizes the beauty and complexity of nature, encouraging an inquisitive and curious attitude towards the mysteries that exist within it. In essence, she encourages us to embark on a lifelong journey of learning and appreciation for the intricacies and unknown aspects of our universe.

"Every creature has a part in the scheme of life and is valuable in its own being. It is only our narrow vision that classifies any one as worthless or useless."

This quote highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings within an ecosystem, emphasizing their inherent value and purpose. By acknowledging this perspective, it encourages empathy and respect for every organism, regardless of its perceived usefulness to humans. It's a call to appreciate biodiversity and understand that each creature plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and harmony within nature.

I hope that the message I conveyed in 'Julie of the Wolves' is to tell young people to think things out. Think independently.

- Jean Craighead George

Think, Young, Tell, Conveyed

I kept on writing and illustrating, for this is what I did well because I loved it.

- Jean Craighead George

Writing, Loved, Well, Illustrating

I have a perfect life where I read; I go out into the wilderness and camp. I meet scientists and learn about their studies of wild animals, and then I come home... and start creating the world I have seen.

- Jean Craighead George

Perfect, Perfect Life, About, Studies

My writing process is a mix of research, personal experiences, washing the dishes, raising kids while thinking - then writing.

- Jean Craighead George

Process, Personal, Raising, Writing Process

I first became aware of the delights of the natural world when my father, an entomologist, presented me with what looked like a twig. When it got up and walked, my delight was such that I wrote a poem, 'To a Walking Stick.'

- Jean Craighead George

Father, Got, Became, Delight

There are always the kids who just love animals. Unfortunately, though, people have become afraid of the outdoors.

- Jean Craighead George

Love, Always, Though, Outdoors

Never before had I been offered a contract and advance before a word had been written... I went home and began writing 'Julie of the Wolves.'

- Jean Craighead George

Been, Before, Began, Wolves

By the time I got to kindergarten, I was surprised to find out I was the only kid with a turkey vulture.

- Jean Craighead George

Kindergarten, By The Time, Surprised

Most of these wild animals depart in autumn when the sun changes their behavior and they feel the urge to migrate or go off alone. While they are with us, however, they become characters in my books, articles, and stories.

- Jean Craighead George

Changes, Feel, However, Autumn

Children are still in love with the wonders of nature, and I am, too. So I write them stories in hopes that they will want to protect all the beautiful creatures and places.

- Jean Craighead George

Love, Still, Stories, Protect

A falcon is the perfect hunter.

- Jean Craighead George

Perfect, Hunter, Falcon

I met senators, diplomats and the President of the United States, Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

- Jean Craighead George

United, United States, Franklin

Every day, I get e-mails from kids who want a tree - a world away from the adult world.

- Jean Craighead George

Every Day, Want, Away, E-Mails

Oh, those golden-yellow eyes of the wolf! You can feel yourself being pulled in. I knew I had been accepted - and that I had spoken to another species.

- Jean Craighead George

Wolf, Been, Pulled, Spoken

Doing interesting things and then writing about them is the best way to become a good writer.

- Jean Craighead George

Doing, Best Way, Good Writer, Interesting Things

I hope my books empower kids, and that they learn how to work out their problems themselves.

- Jean Craighead George

Work, Learn, Empower, Work Out

I have discovered I cannot dream up characters as incredible as the ones I meet in the wilderness.

- Jean Craighead George

Discovered, Characters, Meet

I would just watch the animals, and their stories would roll out when I wrote.

- Jean Craighead George

Watch, Stories, Would, Roll

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.