Johanna Spyri ​

Johanna Spyri was a Swiss-born author of novels, best renowned for her children’s story collection, which centers around the life and experiences of the Swiss Alpine girl, Heidi. The original Heidi book is one of the best-selling books ever written and is among the best-known works of Swiss literature.

Quick Facts ​

• Best known for writing the children's story Heidi.
• Her story has been adapted into numerous films, TV series, and Broadway shows.
• Her works have been translated into more than 50 languages.
• She wrote a number of other stories and novels, though none as well-known as Heidi.
• Despite being Swiss, she often wrote about life in Germany.

Background ​

Spyri was born in 1827 in the village of Hirzel, Switzerland. As a child, she spent several summers in the area around Chur in Graubünden, the setting she later would use in her stories. In 1852, she moved to Zürich to live with her husband, a lawyer. After the death of her only child in 1855, she began to devote her time to social issues and writing.

Her first story, titled "A Leaf on Vrony's Grave", was published in 1861 and she gained fame with the publication of "Heidi", which is her best-known work. The book, written in 1880, tells the story of a young girl who lives in the Swiss Alps. "Heidi" has been translated into more than 50 languages and has been adapted for film and television numerous times. Johanna Spyri continued to write stories and novels for both children and adults until her death in 1901.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Spyri's writing style is characterized by its vivid descriptions, straightforward narration and a deep understanding of human nature. Her work often showcases virtue, purity and the power of nature, and has a strong emphasis on family values and the exploration of childlike innocence. Her most famous work, Heidi, has been credited for introducing Swiss Alps, its culture, and rustic lifestyle to a global audience, making a lasting impact on children's literature.

Notable Works ​

• Heidi's Years of Wandering and Learning (1881)
• Heidi can use what she has learned (1881)
• Gritli's Children (1879)
• Moni the Goat-Boy (1881)
• Erick and Sally (1882)
• Uncle Titus and His Visit to the Country (1881)