John D. Fitzgerald Papers

Collection

Identifier: CLRC-127

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The collection contains production materials, including typescripts, correspondence, proofs, and notes, for five titles published between 1967 and 1973 in John D. Fitzgerald's series of Great Brain books.

Dates

circa 1967-circa 1973

Creator

Fitzgerald, John Dennis (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Open for use in the Elmer L. Andersen Library reading room.

Conditions Governing Use

This collection may be protected by the Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code). It is the user's responsibility to verify copyright ownership and to obtain all necessary permissions prior to the reproduction, publication, or other use of any portion of these materials. Researchers may quote from the collection under the fair use provision of the copyright law.

Biographical Sketch

John Dennis Fitzgerald was born in 1907 in Utah. He worked as journalist, editor, and author for many years and published his first book for children The Great Brainin 1967. This book and the others in the "Great Brain" series were based on the author's childhood in Utah Territory with his brother Tom, the original "Great Brain." John Dennis Fitzgerald wrote in a conversational style with a great deal of sympathy and insight for his characters. The "Great Brain" series was praised by critics for its "subtle characterizations" and mix of humor and suspense. His stories were also cited by critics for their depiction of American family life and the American value system. In the books, Tom and his "Great Brain" wrestle with the dilemma of needing to do good yet also wanting to make a profit. John Dennis Fitzgerald died on May 21, 1988. Biographical Sources: Something About the Author, Vol. 20, p. 50-58.Something About the Author, Vol. 56, p. 51.Twentieth Century Children's Writers, 3rd ed., p. 345-346.

Extent

.8 Cubic Feet (2 hollinger boxes)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Overview

John D. Fitzgerald's papers focus on his work as an outhor of children's books. The collection contains production material for five titles published between 1967 and 1973 in his Great Brain series.

Arrangement

Collection guide arranged alphabetically by title.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Gift of John D. Fitzgerald.

Subjects

Authors, American -- 20th century Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Children's literature, American Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Children's stories, American Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Humorous stories Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Manuscripts for publication Subject Source: Art & Architecture Thesaurus