Gary paulsen full biography of taylor

Gary James Paulsen was born on May 17, at the brink of World War II.

His father, Oscar Paulsen, had joined the U.S. Army and shortly after Gary was born, he served as an officer on the staff of famous army general, George Patton.

Gary paulsen full biography of taylor

For this reason, Oscar was rarely present the first five years of Gary’s life. While Oscar was away, Gary’s mother, Eunice (Moen) Paulsen, developed a drinking problem and rarely came home after work.

With no parents there to raise him as a young boy, his primary caretaker was his babysitter; one whom did not read to him, cook for him, or show much affection.

At the age of five 

Gary was sent to live with his grandmother, Alida, who loved him and took care of him like he was her own. His affection and love for his grandmother is seen in many of his books, especially the Alida books which, he states, though written in third person, are highly autobiographical.

When Gary’s father returned