She Became One Of The Most Read Female Authors In 1920s America, Garnering Over 20 Million Readers During The 35-Year Run Of Her Column “Listen, World!”

“Aunt Elsie” clubs were formed throughout Northern California, and the magazine even hosted live “Aunt Elsie” variety shows at local theaters. By the early 1920s, Elsie had taken on several more columns, including ones meant for adult readers like “Cry on Geraldine’s Shoulder” and “Tell It to Elsie.”

Then, she was asked by William Randolph Hearst to syndicate her 1921 column, “Listen, World!,” where she often discussed her progressive worldviews and spoke out about powerful topics like racism, gender inequality, and better conditions for working-class people. It was quite the revolutionary column, and people loved it.

Before long, “Listen, World!” became one of the most popular columns written by an American woman author, and over 20 million Americans would read it during its impressive 35-year run.

She also had columns run even longer than “Listen, World!” did, like “Cry on Geraldine’s Shoulder” and “Aunt Elsie,” which was published until 1970.

Elsie passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco. She will always be remembered for her brave and unabashed voice and for holding the title of one of the most successful American female writers.