Western Wind (ePub)

Paula Fox was a notable figure in contemporary American literature. She earned wide acclaim for her children's books, as well as for her novels and memoirs for adults. Born in New York City on April 22, 1923, her early years were turbulent. She moved from upstate New York to Cuba to California, and from one school to another. An avid reader at a young age, her love of literature sustained her through the difficulties of an unsettled childhood. At first, Fox taught high school, writing only when occasion permitted. Soon, however, she was able to devote herself to writing full-time, but kept a foot in the classroom by teaching creative writing at the University of Pennsylvania, New York University, and the State University of New York.

In her novels for young readers, Fox fearlessly tackles difficult topics such as death, race, and illness. She has received many distinguished literary awards including a Newbery Medal for The Slave Dancer (1974), a National Book Award for A Place Apart (1983), and a Newbery Honor for One-Eyed Cat (1984). Worldwide recognition for Fox's contribution to literature for children came with the presentation of the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1978.

Fox's novels for adults have also been highly praised. Her 2002 memoir, Borrowed Finery, received the PEN/Martha Albrand Award for the Art of the Memoir, and in 2013 the Paris Review presented her with the Hadada Award, honoring her contribution to literature and the writing community. In 2011, Fox was inducted into the New York State Writers Hall of Fame.

Fox passed away in 2017 at the age of ninety-three.

School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor Book
 
“Another subtle and thoughtful novel from this fine author . . . Beautifully realized characters, vividly telling images, and a wise and compassionate view of the complexities of human nature.” —Kirkus Reviews, pointer review
 
“In this wonderfully realized, sensate novel, Fox’s unadorned prose is anything but austere. . . . In a forthright manner, she sets each scene and paints her thoroughly compelling, complex characters.” —School Library Journal, starred review
 
“Western Wind, in the tradition of the best young-adult fiction, manages to capture the essence of Elizabeth’s transformation from a self-absorbed adolescent to a more tolerant, loving person.” —The New York Times Book Review
 
“Fox delves into a child’s deepening awareness . . . of her grandmother’s values as a person, a painter, and an elder facing death with dignity. Fox’s style especially suits this taut narrative.” —The Bulletin, starred review
 
“Lyrical . . . laced with striking images and similes.” —Publishers Weekly
 
“Well crafted.” —Booklist
 
Praise for Paula Fox
“The greatest writer of her generation.” —Jonathan Franzen
 
“One of America’s most talented writers.” —Publishers Weekly
 
“Fox has always been adept at writing apparently simple stories which on closer examination prove to explore the essential meaning of relationships . . . and to illuminate our understanding of the human condition.” —School Library Journal