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Ellis Parker Butler
1869–1937 · American
About the author
Ellis Parker Butler was born on December 5, 1869, in Muscatine, Iowa. He began his writing career as a journalist before gaining national fame with his 1905 short story "Pigs Is Pigs," a comic tale of bureaucratic absurdity that became a classic of American humor. Over his career, Butler published more than 30 books and over 2,000 stories and essays, appearing in magazines such as The Saturday Evening Post and Harper's. His work often depicted the charm and eccentricities of small-town America, with a gentle, satirical touch. Among his many books is the children's adventure novel "Jibby Jones," which showcases his versatility beyond humor. Butler also served as a president of the Authors League of America. He died on September 13, 1937, in Williamsville, New York. His legacy endures as a master of the American short story and a beloved humorist of the early twentieth century.
