Rudyard kipling author biography page

Home / General Biography Information / Rudyard kipling author biography page

But plagued with the same eyesight problems his father had, John was repeatedly turned down. The book itself was in part a tribute to his late daughter, for whom Kipling had originally crafted the stories as he put her to bed. In London, he formed a lasting friendship with American publisher Wolcott Balestier, who would play a crucial role in Kipling’s personal life and career.

His books included 'Stalky and Co.' (1899), 'Kim' (1901) and 'Puck of Pook's Hill' (1906). With few friends, he devoted himself to reading. The 'Just So Stories' (1902) were originally written for his daughter Josephine, who died of pneumonia aged six. His literary presence transformed into a voice of patriotism as he encouraged his son, John, to enlist in the armed forces.

His physical ailments, compounded by the emotional toll of his family's tragedies, took a significant toll on him. His groundbreaking collection of short stories, "Plain Tales From the Hills", established him as a prominent figure in literature. Mrs. Holloway was a brutal woman who quickly grew to despise her foster son.

Eventually, despite John's poor eyesight, Kipling used his connections to secure him a position as a second lieutenant with the Irish Guard, eager to see his son serve the country. A third child, John, was born in 1897, after the Kiplings had left America.

As a writer, too, Kipling flourished. He passed away on January 18, 1936, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as one of the most influential writers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

His early years were marked by vibrant explorations of local markets and a deep curiosity about the diverse cultures around him. Kipling fell in love with life in the states, and the two decided to settle there. Disney’s 1967 animated film introduced his stories to new generations, ensuring his work remains a lasting part of popular culture. In the winter of 1899, Kipling and Josephine traveled to New York to visit Carrie’s mother.

He vowed never to return to America.

Books such as 'Plain Tales from the Hills' (1888) gained success in England, and in 1889 Kipling went to live in London.

Despite the difficulties he encountered, Kipling found solace in literature. The family enjoyed a comfortable life as part of the British Empire, and young Kipling was particularly close to his mother.

He also joined the Imperial War Graves Commission and selected the biblical phrase inscribed on many British war memorials: 'Their Name Liveth For Evermore'.

Kipling died on 18 January 1936 and is buried at Westminster Abbey.