Brian P. Cleary facts for kids
Brian P. Cleary is a super fun American author, poet, and humorist. He was born on October 1, 1959. He's famous for writing amazing books for kids that make learning about grammar hilarious! He also creates cool gift books for adults.
Besides writing, Brian Cleary works as a senior editor at American Greetings. You might have heard his words sung by famous stars like Dolly Parton, Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson, William Shatner, and Meghan Trainor!
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Brian Cleary's Early Life and School
Brian Cleary grew up in Lakewood, Ohio. He was one of nine children in his family! He went to elementary school in three different states: Kansas, Minnesota, and Ohio.
He later graduated from Saint Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio. This was a Jesuit high school just for boys. After high school, he went to John Carroll University. He earned a degree in communications in 1982.
Brian Cleary's Career Journey
Since 1982, Brian Cleary has worked for American Greetings Corporation. This is one of the biggest creative companies in the world! He is now a senior editor there. He helps create greeting cards, songs, and even electronic greetings.
Brian also loves to visit schools! He has toured over 500 elementary schools across the U.S. and Europe. He gives presentations to students and teachers, sharing his love for words and writing.
Brian Cleary's Fun Books and Writing
Brian Cleary created the popular "Words are CATegorical" series. These books are for elementary school readers. There are 27 books in the series, and over 3 million copies have been sold! They are published by Lerner Publishing Group.
Critics have praised his books. For example, Kirkus Reviews called his book about Adjectives "Neat, clever, commendable, and groovy." Brian has also written funny essays for magazines and newspapers. His cartoon writings have appeared in more than 600 newspapers worldwide.
His poetry has even been featured in collections with other famous poets. You can find his poems alongside works by Jack Prelutsky, Kenn Nesbitt, and Lemony Snicket. One such collection is "One Minute Till Bedtime," published in 2016.
Brian Cleary gets his writing inspiration from other great authors. Some of his literary heroes include Ogden Nash, Shel Silverstein, and E.E. Cummings.
Awards Brian Cleary Has Won
Brian Cleary's amazing books have earned him several awards:
- International Reading Association/Children's Book Council Children's Choice Award
- American Booksellers Association Kids' Pick of the List
- Benjamin Franklin Award (First Place)
- Society of School Librarians International Book Awards, Honor Book
