Richmal Crompton was a renowned English novelist, best known for her children's books, particularly the Just William series. She was born as Richmal Crompton Lamburn on November 15, 1890, in Bury, Lancashire, to Edward J.S. Lamburn and Clara Crompton Lamburn. Crompton was the second child in the family, with an elder brother, John Battersby Lamburn, who also became a writer under the pseudonyms John Crompton and John Lambourne.
Initially trained as a schoolmistress, Crompton later turned to writing and became a popular author, known for her humorous short stories and adult fiction, in addition to the Just William series. Her works often revolved around family and social life, highlighting the constraints that such structures impose on individuals while also nurturing them. Crompton's children, particularly William and his Outlaws, are often depicted as puzzled observers of society's ways, but they almost always emerge victorious.
Crompton's most popular works are the Just William series, which features the adventures of an 11-year-old schoolboy named William Brown and his group of friends, known as the Outlaws. The series comprises 39 books, published between 1922 and 1970, and remains widely popular in the UK even today. The books are known for their humor, satire, and social commentary, and have been adapted into various media formats, including television, radio, and stage productions.
Despite her success as a writer, Crompton remained a private person throughout her life, and little is known about her personal experiences or views. She never married or had children, and devoted her time to writing and teaching. Crompton passed away on January 11, 1969, at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of beloved children's books that continue to captivate readers of all ages.