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Artist Biography

Early Life and Influences

Born: Lansdale, Pennsylvania (1925)
Died: 2011 in London, England
Russell Conwell Hoban was born to Abram T. Hoban, an advertising manager for the *Jewish Daily Forward*, and Jeanette Dimmerman.
His father's socialist leanings and exposure to Yiddish culture significantly influenced his worldview.
Named after Russell Conwell, a Baptist minister and founder of Temple University.
Briefly attended Temple University before enlisting in the Army during World War II.

Military Service and Early Career

Served as a radio operator in the Philippines and Italy during WWII, earning a Bronze Star.
Married Lillian Aberman during his military service; they had four children.
Post-war, worked as an illustrator for magazines like *Time*, *Sports Illustrated*, and *The Saturday Evening Post*.
Also held positions as an advertising copywriter and art director at J. Walter Thompson.
These experiences heavily influenced his later writing, with many characters sharing similar professional backgrounds.

Literary Career: Children's Books and Beyond

Began his literary career in 1959 with *What Does It Do and How Does It Work?: Power Shovel, Dump Truck, and Other Heavy Machines*.
Gained widespread recognition for the "Frances" series of picture books (starting with *Bedtime for Frances*, 1960), illustrated by Lillian Hoban. These stories about a temperamental badger resonated with children and parents alike.
Explored darker themes in works like *The Mouse and His Child* (1967), a philosophical tale that was adapted into an animated film.
Transitioned to writing for adults, producing novels such as *Riddley Walker* (1980), a highly acclaimed and award-winning work of postmodern fiction set in a post-apocalyptic England.
Other notable adult novels include *Pilgermann*, *Angelica Lost and Found*, and *Fremder*.

Move to London and Later Works

Moved to London, England, with his family in 1969, intending a short stay but remaining for the rest of his life.
His marriage to Lillian Aberman ended in 1975; he later married Gundula Ahl.
Many of his adult novels are set in contemporary London.
Continued writing prolifically until his death, exploring themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of human relationships.
His final novel, *Angelica Lost and Found*, was published shortly before his death.

Legacy and Significance

Hoban's work spans multiple genres, demonstrating a remarkable versatility as a writer.
The "Frances" series remains beloved by children worldwide for its relatable characters and humorous situations.
*Riddley Walker* is considered a significant contribution to postmodern literature, known for its unique language and challenging themes.
His ability to blend fantasy, science fiction, and realism established him as a distinctive voice in contemporary literature.
Hoban's daughter, Phoebe Hoban, is a journalist and biographer specializing in art, continuing the family’s creative legacy.

Hoban Russell

Hoban Russell

1925 - 2011 , United States of America

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Fantasy, sci-fi, magical realism
Date Of Birth: February 4, 1925
Date Of Death: December 13, 2011
Full Name: Russell Hoban
Nationality: American
Notable Artworks:
- What Does It Do and How Does It Work?
- Bedtime for Frances
- The Mouse and His Child
- Emmet Otter's Jug-band Christmas
- Riddley Walker
Place Of Birth: Lansdale, United States

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