Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was an American novelist, short story writer, and the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature. Her work spans 'The Age of Innocence', 'The House of Mirth', and 'Ethan Frome' - all of which were widely adapted for the screen in the 20th century. Inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1996, Wharton remains today a huge influence on American English literature and culture.