Evaleen Stein (1863–1923) was an American author, poet, and artist who spent her entire life in Lafayette, Indiana. Living with her mother, she became the focal point of a vibrant local circle of cultured individuals. Stein was a multi-talented creator, working not only as a writer but also as a limner, or illuminator of manuscripts. Her deep appreciation for nature heavily influenced her creative output, serving as a central theme across her various poems and stories.
Over her career, Stein published eleven volumes of stories and three books of verse, alongside translating poetry collections from Japanese and Italian, including Little Poems from Japanese Anthologies. She is particularly remembered for her contributions to children's literature, published between 1903 and 1925. Her historical fiction for young readers often transported them to medieval Europe, as seen in works like Gabriel and the Hour Book and Troubadour Tales. Through these stories, she combined her artistic sensibilities with historical narratives to educate and entertain.
Stein's historical tales, such as The Little Count of Normandy and Pepin: A Tale of Twelfth Night, showcased her ability to render past eras accessible and engaging for children. Her poetry, including Child Songs of Cheer, further cemented her reputation as a versatile writer capable of capturing both the beauty of the natural world and the innocence of youth.
