Sydney Taylor Paintings

Sydney Taylor, born Sarah Brenner in 1904, was an American author most renowned for her series of children's books, the 'All-of-a-Kind Family' series, which vividly depicted the everyday life and experiences of a Jewish family in New York City at the beginning of the 20th century. Taylor's work was groundbreaking in that it brought the day-to-day experiences of a Jewish-American family to the broader American children's literature scene, offering insights into Jewish customs, holidays, and the immigrant experience.

Before becoming a writer, Sydney Taylor worked as a secretary and a teacher. She married Ralph Taylor in 1925 and had a daughter named Jo. It was for her daughter that she first began telling the stories of the 'All-of-a-Kind Family,' which were based on her own childhood experiences with her siblings. Her tales featured the adventures of five sisters: Ella, Henny, Sarah, Charlotte, and Gertie, who lived with their parents on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

Encouraged by her husband, Taylor turned these stories into her first book, 'All-of-a-Kind Family,' which was published in 1951. The book was a success, and she went on to write four more books in the series. These subsequent books followed the family as the children grew up and the world around them changed, with the last one set during World War I.

Taylor's writing was notable for its warmth, humor, and attention to the details of the family's Jewish faith and cultural heritage. She captured the intersection of American and Jewish traditions, emphasizing values such as family unity, kindness, and resilience. Her books also addressed themes of poverty, prejudice, and the assimilation of immigrants into American society.

In addition to her writing, Sydney Taylor was involved in the theatrical world, co-founding the Lenox Hill Players in New York. She also directed and acted in several plays. Her contributions to children's literature have been recognized by the Jewish community and beyond. The Sydney Taylor Book Award, established by the Association of Jewish Libraries in 1968, is presented annually in her honor to outstanding books for children and teens that authentically portray the Jewish experience.

Sydney Taylor passed away in 1978, but her books remain in print and continue to be cherished by readers for their portrayal of family life and the immigrant experience in America. Through her work, Taylor made a significant impact on children's literature, providing a window into a world that had previously been underrepresented in the genre.