Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont was an 18th-century French novelist best known for her simplified version of the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. Born in 1711, she became a prominent figure in children's literature, focusing on moral lessons and the importance of virtue. Her works were widely read and contributed to the popularity of fairy tales in Europe. In addition to her literary contributions, Beaumont was also a governess and educator. She wrote several other stories and instructional texts, emphasizing the value of education for young girls. Her adaptations and writings helped shape the genre of fairy tales, making them accessible to a broader audience.