Margaret Sidney, born Margaret by the "Margaret" of the well-known children's literature, was a prominent American author whose works captivated young readers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was born on April 24, 1844, in New Haven, Connecticut. Sidney's literary contributions primarily focused on themes of childhood, family, and morality, which resonated with her audience during a time when such sentiments were particularly cherished.

Sidney's early life was marked by her love for storytelling and the arts. Growing up in a family that valued education and literature, she was encouraged to pursue her writing interests from a young age. After completing her education, she began her literary career, initially contributing to magazines and periodicals. However, it was her experiences and observations of child life that would shape her most notable works.

Her literary career took off with the publication of "Five Little Peppers and How They Grew" in 1881, which introduced readers to the Pepper family and their adventures. This book was immensely popular, leading to several sequels and solidifying Sidney's status as a beloved children's author. Other notable works include "Five Little Peppers Midway" and "Five Little Peppers Grown Up," which further explored the lives of the Pepper children and their struggles and triumphs.

Sidney’s personal life was characterized by her strong sense of family values, which often influenced her writing. She remained unmarried throughout her life and dedicated herself to her work and her family. Margaret Sidney passed away on September 2, 1924, in Boston, Massachusetts. Her legacy endures through her timeless stories that continue to delight and inspire young readers, making her a significant figure in American children's literature.