Jan Wahl

Who is Jan Wahl?

Jan Boyer Wahl is a prolific author of over 100 works, known primarily for his award-winning children's books, including Pleasant Fieldmouse and Humphrey's Bear. Wahl sometimes refers to himself as "Dr. Mouse," a nickname given him by a young fan.

Jan Wahl was born in Columbus, Ohio. His father was physician Russell Rothenberger, and his mother was Nina Marie Boyer Wahl. He has five brothers. Wahl has suggested that his brother Phil Wahl was the real-life inspiration for the character played by Bill Murray in the film Lost In Translation. Another brother, Robert C. Wahl, has also authored novels and children's books.

Jan Wahl received a B.A. from Cornell University in 1953, then went on to graduate studies at the University of Copenhagen and the University of Michigan. On March 15, 1996, Bowling Green State University awarded Wahl the honorary degree Doctor of Letters in recognition of his continuing work in children's literature and in the history of film.

Wahl is also well known as a film historian and collector of films and film history related artifacts.