Thelma L. Strabel, a celebrated American novelist, was renowned for her captivating tales of the American South and thrilling sea adventures that captivated readers of all ages. Born on December 19, 1900, in the charming town of Crown Point, Indiana, she was the first child of John George Strabel, a devoted grocer, and his loving wife Nannsie. Despite being born in Indiana, Strabel would later claim Pennsylvania as her birthplace, a decision that remains shrouded in mystery to this day.
Strabel's childhood was a formative period, marked by a strong affinity for writing, which was evident from a tender age, as she had the distinction of publishing a short story in the children's section of a prominent Pittsburgh newspaper. This early exposure to the world of literature likely played a significant role in shaping her future endeavors. As a young teenager, Strabel demonstrated a sense of responsibility and a keen interest in civic duty, as she took on the role of a census enumerator for the local census board at the tender age of 16.
As she recuperated from a prolonged illness in the picturesque Swiss landscape, Strabel stumbled upon a newfound passion for crafting fictional stories as a legitimate career path. Her nascent literary endeavors yielded a string of notable works, including the 1933 publication of Smart Woman, which would prove to be the first of many novels to capture the imagination of readers worldwide.
In the following years, Strabel continued to hone her craft, producing a remarkable array of titles that showcased her unique ability to transport readers to far-flung destinations. Streamline Marriage, released in 1937, was a testament to her skill in weaving intricate narratives that explored the complexities of human relationships.
The subsequent years saw the release of two more novels that further solidified Strabel's reputation as a masterful storyteller. For Richer -- Or For Poorer? (1938) and You Can't Escape Forever (1938) were both met with critical acclaim, and it was clear that Strabel's passion for writing had evolved into a genuine vocation.
Throughout her body of work, Strabel's novels often featured exotic and alluring settings, such as the sun-kissed Caribbean islands and the lush, vibrant jungles of Peru. These evocative backdrops served as the perfect canvas upon which Strabel could paint her vivid characters and intricate plots, resulting in a distinctive literary style that captivated readers and left a lasting impression.
The literary masterpiece of her illustrious career, "Reap the Wild Wind", a sweeping romance set amidst the vibrant backdrop of Key West, Florida, where the storied wreckers of the era played a pivotal role. This captivating novel, penned by the esteemed author, weaves a tale of passion and drama, transporting readers to the sun-kissed shores of the Florida Keys.
The story, which has stood the test of time, was later adapted into a Hollywood blockbuster by the legendary producer-director, Cecil B. DeMille, in 1942. The film, starring the ravishing Paulette Goddard and the dashing John Wayne, was a massive commercial success, cementing its place in the annals of cinematic history.
Strabel's profound admiration for the enchanting city of Key West and its rich, storied past led her to build a majestic residence there, which quickly became a beloved tourist attraction. Unfortunately, this architectural gem met its demise, leaving behind only memories of its former glory.
Strabel's life took a significant turn when she exchanged vows with David P. Godwin, the chief of fire control for the U.S. Forest Service, in a union that would later serve as the inspiration for her notable short story, The Forest Ranger. This literary work would also be adapted into a film in 1942, titled The Forest Rangers.
Tragedy struck Strabel's life when her husband, David P. Godwin, met an untimely demise in a plane crash on June 13, 1947. This devastating event had a profound impact on Strabel, who never remarried following Godwin's passing.
Notable among Strabel's later literary endeavors are the publication of "Storm to the South" in 1944, a captivating romance novel set against the picturesque backdrop of Bolivarian Peru. Additionally, Strabel's work "You Were There" was initially serialized in the popular women's magazine "Woman's Home Companion" before being adapted into the 1946 film "Undercurrent", a testament to the enduring appeal of her storytelling. Furthermore, Strabel's romantic novel "Caribee", released in 1957, masterfully weaves the tragic events surrounding the devastating Mount Pelée volcanic disaster of 1902 into a compelling narrative.
Thelma L. Strabel's life came to a close on May 28, 1959, as she succumbed to the devastating effects of cancer, ultimately leaving behind a legacy that would be cherished for generations to come.
Born in the nation's capital, Washington DC, Thelma L. Strabel's journey on this earth was marked by a profound impact on those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
As her mortal coil was shed, Thelma L. Strabel's physical form was laid to rest in the picturesque city of Charleston, South Carolina, where her memory would continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of calling her their own.
Though her time on this earth was cut short, Thelma L. Strabel's spirit would live on, a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.
