Christine Noble Govan was a local author who is best remembered for her young adult mystery novels. She lived for the better portion of her life on Lookout Mountain and her writings were most influenced by her love of mysteries and her geographic surroundings- which frequently found their way into her books (e.g. Mystery at Moccasin Bend, Mystery at Rock City, etc.). Her husband, Dr. Gilbert Govan, was also a writer and a local historian and director of the library at the University of Chattanooga (1934-1962). Her daughter, Emmy Payne (West) co-wrote many of the mystery novels that Christine produced. Emmy was noted for her work with H.A. Rey on Katy No-Pocket. Her other daughter, Mary Q. Steele (who often published under the name Wilson Gage), also wrote books and her young adult novel Journey Outside (1969) was selected as a Newbery Honor Book in 1970.
Collectively, Christine Govan authored over 40 books, the vast majority being young adult novels. Above are two recent donations to the Special Collections that represent nice additions to a collection of the Govan family’s books that we have been building for some time. The Special Collections retains 11 (including our new donations) of Christine’s books and we are always seeking to add to our collection. (We also hold books written by Emmy, Mary, and Dr. Govan.) We are deeply indebted to those who donate to our repository and we are always looking for those who would like to add to the legacy of this talented family.
[The Special Collections also retains manuscript collections for Mary Q. Steele, Gilbert Govan, and Gilbert and Christine Govan .]