Almost all children know the story of the determined little blue switch engine who, when the red engine is unable to do so, pulls a trainload of toys and wholesome food over a mountain to the good little boys and girls on the other side. Similarly, most adults have read The Little Engine That Could or, more than likely, have had it read to them as children. Few, however, of all who know the story, remember the name of the person who is listed as its author. Almost no one, except librarians in a children's division of a library, recognizes the name of Watty Piper or is able to name any of the many other books for which Piper is credited as author, editor, or compiler.

Watty Piper is a most unusual author, which may, in part, have helped to create and to perpetuate anonymity. Piper has never...