Jan Slepian

Jan Slepian (January 2, 1921 – November 2, 2016) was an American author known for her contributions to children's literature and young adult fiction. She was also a speech therapist and a poet.

Early Life and Education

Jan Slepian was born in New York City, New York. She attended Brooklyn College, where she earned her bachelor's degree. She later pursued a master's degree in speech pathology at Columbia University.

Career

Slepian began her career as a speech therapist, working with children who had speech and language difficulties. Her experiences in this field greatly influenced her writing, particularly her ability to understand and convey the perspectives of young people.

Children's Literature

Jan Slepian is best known for her work in children's literature. She co-authored several books with Ann Seidler, including The Hungry Thing and The Hungry Thing Returns. These books are celebrated for their playful use of language and their ability to engage young readers.

Young Adult Fiction

In addition to her work for younger children, Slepian wrote several novels for young adults. Her novel The Alfred Summer received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a boy with a disability and his friendships.

Personal Life

Jan Slepian was married to David Slepian, a noted mathematician and electrical engineer. They had three children together. Slepian's personal experiences and family life often provided inspiration for her writing.

Legacy

Jan Slepian's work continues to be appreciated for its warmth, humor, and insight into the lives of young people. Her books remain popular among children, parents, and educators.

Selected Works

• The Hungry Thing (with Ann Seidler)
• The Hungry Thing Returns (with Ann Seidler)
• The Alfred Summer
• Risk n' Roses

See Also

• Children's literature
• Young adult fiction
• Speech therapy