Jane Thayer, the pen name of Catherine Woolley (1904-2005), was an American children's book author best known for her book "The Puppy Who Wanted a Boy," which became a classic in children's literature. Born in Chicago, she wrote more than 75 books in her lifetime. Her stories often featured animals or children seeking companionship or adventure. She worked for a time as a librarian before committing to writing full-time. Thayer's gentle storytelling and knack for capturing the emotions and experiences of childhood made her a beloved author among children and parents alike. Woolley also wrote under her own name, primarily young adult novels and books about the character "Ginny."