"The Black Tor"

George Manville Fenn was a prolific English novelist, journalist, editor and educationalist. He was born in Pimlico, London, on January 3, 1831. He was largely self-educated, teaching himself French, German and Italian. After studying at Battersea Training College for Teachers (1851-1854), he became the master of a national school at Alford, Lincolnshire. Fenn began writing stories and articles for magazines and newspapers in the early 1850s. His first novel, The Old Forest Ranger, was published in 1856. He went on to write over 100 novels, many of which were written for young adults. His novels were popular and well-received, and he was one of the most successful writers of his time. Fenn was also a journalist and editor. He worked for several newspapers and magazines, including The Boy's Own Paper, which he edited from 1866 to 1874. He was a strong advocate for education and literacy, and he worked to improve the quality of children's literature. Fenn died in Isleworth, England, on August 26, 1909.