In a somber moment for literary fans, we bid farewell to the cherished children’s author Beverly Cleary, who has passed away at the age of 104 in Carmel, California, where she had resided since the 1960s. Cleary’s influence on generations of young readers is immeasurable, with characters like Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins becoming beloved fixtures in children’s literature.
Suzanne Murphy, President and Publisher of HarperCollins Children’s Books, expressed the loss felt by many: “We are deeply saddened by Beverly Cleary’s passing. She often reflected, ‘I’ve had a lucky life,’ and indeed, countless children have been fortunate to grow up with her richly crafted characters.”
Cleary, who published over 40 books and sold an astounding 85 million copies, began her journey as a librarian in Yakima, Washington. Her first book, Henry Huggins, was released in 1950 and laid the foundation for her illustrious career. As author Ilene Cooper noted, “When it comes to writing books kids love, nobody does it better.”
Born on April 12, 1916, in McMinnville, Oregon, Cleary developed a passion for reading early on, thanks to her mother establishing a library for their small town. After earning her degree from the University of California at Berkeley, she later specialized in librarianship at the University of Washington, Seattle. Her writing earned her numerous accolades, including a Newbery Honor for Ramona and Her Father in 1978 and the prestigious Newbery Medal for Dear Mr. Henshaw in 1984.
Cleary’s contributions to literature were widely recognized, including the 1975 Laura Ingalls Wilder Award and the 2000 title of “Living Legend” by the Library of Congress. She is survived by her two children, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
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In summary, Beverly Cleary’s passing marks a significant loss in the world of children’s literature, yet her characters will continue to resonate with readers. Her contributions have left an indelible mark, ensuring that her legacy will endure for generations to come.