The Resume

(July 9, 1713-December 22, 1767)
Born in Waltham St. Lawrence, Berkshire, England, United Kingdom
Printed over a hundred children’s books
Notable titles included ‘A Pretty Little Pocket Book’ (1744) and ‘The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes’ (1765)
Called ‘the father of children’s literature’

Why he might be annoying:

He was an apprentice printer who took over the business by marrying his boss’s widow.
He made as much money from selling a quack patent medicine, Dr. Robert James’ Fever Powder, as he did from selling books.
He shamelessly plugged the medicine in his books, such as writing that Goody Two-Shoes’ father died when he was ‘seized with a violent fever in a place where Dr James Fever Powder was not to be had.’

Why he might not be annoying:

He was the first publisher to specialize in children’s literature.
He was known for his marketing innovations, such as offering toys and games with his books.
He followed John Locke’s ideas of promoting learning through play.
He financially assisted Samuel Johnson and Oliver Goldsmith.
He is namesake of the Newbery Medal, created by the American Library Association to honor ‘the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.’ (1922)

Credit: C. Fishel

Featured in the following Annoying Collections:

• Award Namesakes
• C. Fishel's Profiles [Series 80]
• Children's Book Authors
• I Adopted a Child
• I Have Adopted and Biological Children
• Look at My Book Cover
• People with John or Mary in their Names
• Profiles 49838-50000 (Ranked: 49882)

Year In Review:

In 2023, Out of 2 Votes: 0% Annoying
In 2022, Out of 2 Votes: 50.0% Annoying
In 2021, Out of 151 Votes: 53.64% Annoying