Thomas Bailey Aldrich (1836–1907) was an eminent American writer, poet, critic, and editor, remembered for his skillful use of language and his insightful depictions of New England life. Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Aldrich moved to New York City at an early age, an experience that would later influence his literary perspective. He found success early in his career with collections of poetry such as 'The Bells' (1855), but it was his prose that would earn him widespread acclaim. His semi-autobiographical novel, 'The Story of a Bad Boy' (1869), is considered a precursor to Mark Twain's 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,' establishing Aldrich as a critical figure in the development of American literary realism. Not confined to adult readers, Aldrich also showed acuity for capturing the wonder and struggles of childhood, exemplified in the touching narrative 'The Little Violinist' (1873). This short story is illustrative of Aldrich's literary style that often combined sentimentality with a dash of wit, all while evoking strong imagery and emotions. Over his career, he served as the editor of important publications such as 'The Atlantic Monthly,' cementing his place in American letters. Aldrich's nuanced portrayal of characters and settings, alongside his storytelling artistry, left a distinct mark on late 19th-century American literature.