George MacDonald (1824 - 1905) was a Scottish-born novelist and poet. He grew up in a religious home influenced by various sects of Christianity. He attended University of Aberdeen, where he graduated with a degree in chemistry and physics. After experiencing a crisis of faith, he began theological training and became minister of Trinity Congregational Church. Later, he gained success as a writer penning fantasy tales such as Lilith, The Light Princess and At the Back of the North Wind. MacDonald became a well-known lecturer and mentor to various creatives including Lewis Carroll who famously wrote, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland fame.

A young boy is swept away by the North Wind and becomes her new traveling companion. At the Back of the North Wind, by George MacDonald is a fantasy novel originally published in 1871. The story centers a joyous child who discovers the shocking duality of life, death and God.