Lurana W. Sheldon

Lurana Waterhouse Sheldon Ferris

Lurana W. Sheldon (1862–1945) was an American author, journalist, and editor known for her prolific output of popular fiction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She wrote under her own name as well as several pseudonyms, including Rita and Grace Shirley.

Early Life

Lurana W. Sheldon was born in Hadlyme, Connecticut in 1862. She was educated in local schools and developed an early interest in writing.

Career

Sheldon began her career as a journalist, contributing to various newspapers and magazines. She quickly gained a reputation for her engaging writing style and soon transitioned to writing fiction. Her works were often serialized in popular periodicals of the time, such as The New York Ledger and The Saturday Evening Post.

Novels and Short Stories

Sheldon wrote numerous novels and short stories, many of which were aimed at a female audience. Her works often featured strong, independent women and explored themes of romance, adventure, and social issues. Some of her notable works include:

• The American Countess
• The Forsaken Bride
• The Heiress of Castle Cliff

Pseudonyms

In addition to writing under her own name, Sheldon used several pseudonyms to publish her works. These included Rita and Grace Shirley, under which she wrote a number of popular novels and stories.

Personal Life

Lurana W. Sheldon was married to George Sheldon, a fellow writer and editor. The couple had several children and lived in New York City for much of their lives. Sheldon was known for her active involvement in literary circles and was a member of several writers' organizations.

Legacy

Lurana W. Sheldon left a significant mark on American popular fiction. Her works were widely read and enjoyed by a broad audience. She is remembered for her contributions to the genre and for her role in shaping the literary landscape of her time.

Selected Works

• The American Countess
• The Forsaken Bride
• The Heiress of Castle Cliff

See Also

• American literature
• Women in literature
• 19th-century American writers
• 20th-century American writers