Hesba Stretton, born Sarah Smith on April 27, 1832, in Manchester, England, was a prominent Victorian author known for her children's literature and moral tales. She later adopted the pen name Hesba Stretton, which became widely recognized during her literary career. Stretton's life journey was marked by her deep commitment to social issues, particularly those affecting children and the impoverished classes of society.

Stretton spent her early years in a working-class family and faced the challenges of poverty, which profoundly influenced her worldview and writing. Her family moved to the seaside town of Brighton, where she began her education, developing an interest in literature and storytelling. Encouraged by her experiences and observations of the struggles faced by the less fortunate, she began writing at a young age, eventually publishing her first stories in local magazines.

Her literary career gained momentum in the 1860s when she published her most notable works, including "Jessica's First Prayer" (1867), which tells the story of a poor girl and her faith, and "The Doctor's Daughter" (1865), which explores themes of compassion and social justice. Stretton's writing was characterized by its heartfelt moral messages, often aimed at young readers, and her ability to evoke empathy for the disadvantaged. Over her lifetime, she produced over 30 novels, many of which became bestsellers, making her one of the most popular authors of her time.

In her personal life, Stretton remained dedicated to her causes and lived modestly, often drawing on her own experiences for inspiration. She never married and instead devoted her life to her writing and charitable work, advocating for the welfare of children and the poor. Hesba Stretton passed away on February 11, 1911, in London, leaving behind a legacy as a compassionate storyteller who used her pen to uplift and educate society.