Cleary, Beverly

Beverly Cleary (1916-2021) was an American author known for her children's books, particularly the "Ramona" series and the "Henry Huggins" series. She was born in McMinnville, Oregon, and grew up on a farm in the rural town of Yamhill.Cleary's books often featured relatable and realistic characters that resonated with young readers. Her first book, "Henry Huggins," was published in 1950 and introduced readers to the titular character, a young boy living in Portland, Oregon. The success of "Henry Huggins" led to a series of books featuring Henry and his friends, including Ramona Quimby.Cleary's most famous character, Ramona Quimby, first appeared in "Beezus and Ramona" in 1955. The character quickly became a beloved icon of children's literature, and Cleary went on to write eight more books in the "Ramona" series.Cleary's books were known for their humor, warmth, and insight into the minds of children. She won numerous awards for her writing, including the Newbery Medal for "Dear Mr. Henshaw" in 1984 and the National Medal of Arts in 2003.Cleary passed away in March 2021 at the age of 104, leaving behind a legacy of beloved children's books that continue to be read and cherished by generations of readers.