Beverly Cleary

author · kids books · storytelling · classics

Wrote 91 million copies. Beverly Cleary's books have been sold all around the world more than 91 million times since her first book came out in 1950. That makes her one of America's most successful authors ever.

Created Ramona Quimby. One of her most famous characters is Ramona Quimby, a spunky girl who gets into all sorts of funny mishaps. Ramona's stories are so relatable that kids have loved reading about her adventures for decades.

Made Henry Huggins famous. Henry Huggins and his beloved dog Ribsy star in several of Cleary's books about a regular boy having extraordinary adventures with his loyal pet.

Brought Ralph S. Mouse to life. Ralph S. Mouse is a motorcycle-riding mouse who speaks English and goes on wild adventures. This character shows Cleary's wild imagination and ability to make even tiny creatures unforgettable.

Wrote with honesty. Cleary's stories feel real because she wrote about everyday problems that kids actually face, like sibling arguments and school troubles, making her books ring true.