Emily Arnold McCully facts for kids
Emily Arnold McCully, born on July 1, 1939, is an American writer and artist. She is famous for creating wonderful children's books. In 1993, she won the important Caldecott Medal for her amazing illustrations in the picture book Mirette on the High Wire. She also wrote this book herself!
About Emily Arnold McCully
Emily Arnold McCully was born in Galesburg, Illinois. She grew up in Garden City, New York. She went to Pembroke College, which is now part of Brown University. She graduated in 1961. Later, she earned a master's degree in Art History from Columbia University.
While at Brown University, Emily was involved in theater. She acted in plays and even helped write a musical called Happily Never After. She was also a very good student, earning a special award called Phi Beta Kappa.
Her Writing Career
Emily Arnold McCully started her writing career with short stories. In 1976, one of her short stories was chosen for a special collection called O'Henry Collection: Best Short Stories of the Year.
She also wrote two novels for adults: A Craving in 1982 and Life Drawing in 1986.
In 2012, she illustrated a children's book called Ballerina Swan. This book was written by a famous ballerina named Allegra Kent. Many important newspapers and journals praised Ballerina Swan.
Awards and Honors
Emily Arnold McCully has received many awards for her work.
- She won a Christopher Award for her book Picnic.
- She received the prestigious Caldecott Medal for Mirette on the High Wire. This award is given for the best picture book illustrations in the U.S.
- She also won the Jane Addams Award and the Giverney Award.
- Brown University gave her an honorary doctorate degree.
Emily Arnold McCully lives in Chatham with her partner, playwright Elizabeth Diggs.
