Arthur Chrisman
Arthur Chrisman was born on July 16th, 1889. Arthur passed away February 14th, 1953 at 63 years old. Arthur Chrisman was born in Clarke Couny, Virginia, USA. Chrisman attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
Arthur Bowie Chrisman was an American author. Born in Clarke County, Virginia, Chrisman went to a one-room school. He later attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute from 1906 to 1908 but quit after his second year. He is famously known for his book
She of the Sea: A Book for Children (1925), which is a collection of sixteen short stories. The book won the
Newbery Medal in 1926. His other notable books include
Clarke County, 1836–1936 (1936),
The Wind That Wouldn't Blow, and
Treasures Long Hidden.
Chrisman had respiratory problems and relocated to Arkansas around 1943. In his later years, he became solitary, rarely leaving his tiny cabin in Shirley. On February 21, 1953, two local men found his body after he failed to show up for his usual grocery trip to Clinton. The coroner believed he had been dead for about a week.
Chrisman’s book
She of the Sea is inspired by Chinese folk tales. The book is beautifully illustrated with more than 50 silhouettes by Else Hasselriis. The stories are full of humor and imagination, making them enjoyable for readers of all ages.
The title story features a clever king trying to outsmart water demons to save his city from a flood. Other stories tell of the origins of everyday items such as chopsticks and how mud pies magically became fine in China.
One of the notable stories in the book is about family, misunderstandings, and a naughty boy named Ah Mee. On a rainy day, brothers Ching Cha and Ching Chi have a playful conversation about how rainy days often result in trouble at home. Ching Chi quotes an old saying about having extra time to discipline children, but Ching Cha takes it seriously since his nephew Ah Mee has been a source of trouble.
Ah Mee had recently pretended to be a wild dragon, unleashing havoc in his Uncle Ching Cha’s cabbage patch. After a warning to never play dragon again, Ah Mee cleverly follows the letter of the rule and not the spirit—this time pretending to be a wild elephant instead. His antics cause more chaos and frustration for his uncle.
This story explores the dynamic between the strict but loving Ching Cha and the more lenient Ching Chi, who sees Ah Mee as his “pearl in the palm.” The tale captures the importance of family and the funny ways children can interpret rules through charming character interactions and witty dialogue.
But overall,
She of the Sea is a delightful read that brings traditional folklore to life in a way that’s both entertaining and educational. It’s perfect for young readers and those who love tales with a touch of magic and humor.
Arthur Chrisman: Awards & Accolades
Chrisman's book, Shen of the Sea won the John Newbery Medal Awards, Newbery Medal, in 1926.
Related Authors
Fans of Arthur Chrisman also enjoy these authors:
- J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter Series.
- Charles Dickens, author of: A Christmas Carol.
- Sue Grafton, author of the Kinsey Millhone Series.
- Craig Johnson, author of the Walt Longmire Series.
- Rita Mae Brown, author of the Mrs. Murphy Series.
Arthur Chrisman: F.A.Q
When was Arthur Chrisman Born?
Arthur Chrisman was born on July 16th, 1889.
When did Arthur Chrisman die?
Arthur Chrisman died on February 14th, 1953 at 63 years old.
Where was Arthur Chrisman Born?
Arthur Chrisman was born in Clarke Couny, Virginia, USA.
What book awards has Arthur Chrisman won?
Chrisman's book, Shen of the Sea won the award John Newbery Medal Awards, Newbery Medal, in 1926.
What was the first book Arthur Chrisman wrote?
The first book written by Arthur Chrisman was Shen of the Sea, published in 1925.
What was the most recent book Arthur Chrisman wrote?
His most recently released work was The Wind That Wouldn't Blow on January 1st, 1941.
How many books has Arthur Chrisman written?
Arthur Chrisman has written 4 books. 1 Arthur Bowie Chrisman Non-Fiction Books, 3 Arthur Bowie Chrisman Collections.