Spyri, Johanna: - Johanna Spyri (June 12, 1827-July 7, 1901) was born in Switzerland. She was a Swiss author whose book for kids, Heidi, became famous all over the world. Her psychological insight into the minds of children, her wit, and her ability to enter into the childish joys and sorrows endow her book with charm and lasting value. After her marriage in 1852 to Bernhard Spyri, a lawyer engaged in editorial work, she moved to Zurich. Her adoration for her homeland, feeling for nature, humble devotion, and cheerful insight gave both her work and her life their interesting quality. Her books include Ein Blatt auf Vronys Grab (1870, A Leaf from Vrony's Grave), Heidi, 2 vols. (1880-81), Heimatlos (1881), and Gritli (1882).