J. M. Barrie

Profession: Writer

Nationality:

Biography: J. M. Barrie is best known for creating the beloved character Peter Pan. He also wrote many other popular novels and plays set in Scotland that made him a successful author, although today some critics considered these sentimental representations of an idealised Scotland.

Barrie's most well-known work, however, originated from stories he told to the Llewelyn Davies boys—George, John, Peter, Michael, and Nicholas—whom he later unofficially adopted after their parents died.

The character Peter Pan first appeared in his 1902 novel "The Little White Bird" before being featured in the 1904 stage play "Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up," which also first popularized Wendy as a name for girls.

After the success of Peter Pan, Barrie had several further successful stage shows, often also addressing social issues in his works. In 1929, he granted the copyright to the Peter Pan works to a children's hospital in London.

Barrie's personal life included a troubled marriage to actress Mary Ansell that ultimately ended in divorce. Meanwhile, his close relationship with the Llewelyn Davies family was a major inspiration for his writing.

For his literary achievements, Barrie was made a baronet in 1913 and a member of the Order of Merit in 1922.

Born: May 9, 1860
Birthplace: Kirriemuir, Angus, Scotland
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: June 19, 1937 (aged 77)