The son of J. W. Ellis, the family moved to Plattsburg in 1880 when his father purchased Plattsburg College. Not much is known of Ellis' early years or education, although it is likely that he attended his father's school. He became a prolific writer and reached the best-seller list with Fran in 1912. His first novel, Dread and Fear of Kings appeared in 1900 and he would go on to produce more than 20 novels and numerous short stories. His other works include Garcilaso (1901), The Holland Wolves (1902), Stork's Nest (1905), Arkinsaw Cousins (1908), Lahoma (1913), Little Fiddler of the Ozarks (1913), Agnes of the Badlands (1916), Picture on the Wall (1920), Mysterious Dr. Oliver (1929) and Adventure of Living (1933). |