Julia Frankau

Julia Frankau (née Davis; 30 July 1859 – 17 March 1916), known by the pen name Frank Danby, was an English art historian and novelist. Her first novel was published in 1887: Dr. Phillips: A Maida Vale Idyll. Its portrayal of London Jews and Jewish life, and its depiction of murder by a doctor were controversial. This was followed by more Frank Danby novels and by books on other subjects, including engraving, which were sometimes written under her own name. Frankau continued to write until the time of her death.

Early life and education

Frankau was born Julia Davis on 30 July 1859 in Dublin to Anglo-Jewish parents Hyman Davis (1824–1875), a dentist and later portrait photographer, and Isabella Davis (1824–1900). The seventh of nine siblings, Frankau was the sister of the librettist and journalist James Davis, known by the pen name Owen Hall, and the fashion journalist, editor and socialite Eliza Davis. Frankau was also the sister of the American based journalist Harrie Davis, and the writer Florette Collins.

The family returned to London in 1864, living in Bruton Street before settling in Warrington Crescent. Raised in a observant Reform Jewish household, the family belonged to West London Synagogue. Frankau first attended Miss Belisario's School before being educated at home. Educated by a tutor and later by Laura Lafargue, Frankau's formal education ended when she was 12 years old following her father's death. Frankau's education continued informally under her brother James, through whom she was introduced to London's bohemian society.