The Comtesse de Ségur, born Sophie de Ségur on July 20, 1799, in Saint-Petersburg, Russia, was a prominent French author known for her enchanting children's literature. She belonged to the Russian nobility, being the daughter of a general in the Imperial Army, and moved to France with her family when she was a young child. This transition marked the beginning of her deep connection with French culture and language, which would later influence her literary endeavors.

Ségur's life took a significant turn when she married the Count de Ségur in 1819, a union that anchored her within the French aristocracy and provided her with the social standing that would later facilitate her literary career. The couple had several children, and her experiences as a mother and educator deeply informed her writing. She began writing stories for her children, which later evolved into her acclaimed literary works.

Her literary career began in earnest in the mid-19th century, with her first book, "Les Malheurs de Sophie" ("Sophie's Misfortunes"), published in 1858. This work, along with others such as "Les Petites Filles Modèles" ("The Model Little Girls") and "Un Bon Petit Diable" ("A Good Little Devil"), became beloved classics of children's literature. Ségur's works are characterized by their moral lessons, whimsical characters, and engaging plots, making them appealing to both children and adults.

The Comtesse de Ségur passed away on June 9, 1871, in Paris, France. Her legacy endures through her timeless stories that continue to captivate readers, reflecting her understanding of childhood and the values of her time. Today, she is remembered as a foundational figure in children's literature, whose works have left an indelible mark on generations of young readers.