Norman Bridwell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Norman Bridwell
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Bridwell in 2011
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| Born | Norman Ray Bridwell February 15, 1928 Kokomo, Indiana, U.S. |
| Died | December 12, 2014 (aged 86) Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Occupation | Writer and illustrator |
| Genre | Children's literature |
| Notable works | Clifford the Big Red Dog |
| Spouse |
Norma Howard
(m. 1958–2014) |
| Children | 2 |
Norman Ray Bridwell was an American writer and illustrator. He is most famous for creating the beloved Clifford the Big Red Dog book series. Bridwell was born on February 15, 1928, and passed away on December 12, 2014. His stories and drawings have brought joy to millions of children around the world.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Norman Bridwell was born in Kokomo, Indiana, on February 15, 1928. His parents were Leona and Vern Bridwell. He finished high school in 1945. After that, he studied art at the John Herron School of Art in Indianapolis. He also went to Cooper Union in New York City. These schools helped him learn to draw and create stories.
How Clifford Was Born
Norman Bridwell wanted to be a children's book illustrator. He showed his drawings to about fifteen different publishers, but they all said no. One day, an editor at a publishing house called Harper & Row gave him a great idea. She suggested he turn one of his drawings into a story.
The drawing was of a young girl and a very large, dog-like creature. This drawing became the start of Clifford the Big Red Dog. That first book was a huge success! It led to over 40 more Clifford books.
Clifford's Big Success
The Clifford the Big Red Dog series became incredibly popular. It grew into much more than just books. There have been three animated television series based on the books. There's also been a live musical and even a live-action movie. Clifford is so famous that he is the official mascot for Scholastic Corporation, a big publishing company.
Norman Bridwell also wrote other successful books. These include The Witch Next Door and How to Care for Your Monster. More than 126 million copies of his books have been printed. They have been translated into 13 different languages.
Family Life
In 1958, Norman Bridwell married Norma Ellen Howard. They had two children, a daughter named Emily Elizabeth and a son named Tim. Emily Elizabeth is also the name of Clifford's owner in the books! At the time of his death, Norman and Norma had three grandchildren.
The Bridwell family lived in Edgartown, Massachusetts, on Martha's Vineyard. They moved there in 1969 and lived there until Norman passed away.
Later Years
Norman Bridwell died on December 12, 2014. He was 86 years old. His stories and characters, especially Clifford, continue to be loved by children and families everywhere.
