Brock Cole facts for kids

Brock Cole (born May 29, 1938) is an American children's author and illustrator. He writes and draws picture books for younger children. He also writes novels and novellas for young adult readers, which are longer stories for teens.

Some of his books have been known to start interesting discussions because they explore different or thought-provoking ideas. Even so, he is well-known for his unique writing and drawing style.

Brock Cole was born in Charlotte, Michigan. He moved around the Midwest often during his childhood. This was because his father was a dentist in the army during World War II. Cole went to Kenyon College and earned a bachelor's degree in English in 1960. Later, he studied at the University of Minnesota, where he received a PhD in Philosophy in 1972. Before becoming a writer and illustrator, Cole was a philosophy professor at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.

Cole is married to Susan Guettel Cole, who is an expert in ancient Greek and Roman studies. The Coles live in Buffalo, New York. They have two children and two grandchildren.

Brock Cole's Books

Brock Cole is famous for his creative stories and illustrations. He has written many books that readers enjoy. His picture books often feature charming characters and imaginative plots. For young adults, his novels dive into deeper topics.

Exploring Themes in His Work

Cole's books often explore themes like growing up, facing challenges, and understanding different perspectives. He encourages readers to think about the world around them. His stories can be funny, heartwarming, or even a bit mysterious.

A Look at Buttons

One of his books, Buttons, tells a unique story. It shows how characters might think about their future and what they value. Here are some lines from the book:

• "I shall dress in my finest clothes and walk up and down the Palace Bridge. Surely a rich man will fall in love with me and ask me to be his wife. But I will say, 'No! I can never be yours! Not unless you first give me all your buttons!'"
• "Many buttons were lost or destroyed in the process, but who could think of buttons at a time like this?"

These lines show the playful and imaginative nature of his storytelling.

Life and Education

Brock Cole's journey to becoming an author and illustrator involved a strong background in both arts and philosophy. His education helped shape his unique way of looking at the world. This perspective often shines through in his writing.

Early Life and Moving Around

Moving often as a child gave Cole many different experiences. These experiences might have influenced the diverse settings and characters in his books. It allowed him to see various parts of the Midwest.

Academic Background

His studies in English gave him a strong foundation in storytelling and language. His PhD in Philosophy likely helped him explore complex ideas. This academic background contributes to the depth found in his young adult novels.