Patricia Coombs facts for kids
Patricia Coombs is a talented American author and illustrator. She was born in Los Angeles, California, on July 23, 1926. Patricia Coombs is best known for creating many wonderful children's picture books. Her most famous series is about a character named Dorrie the Little Witch.
Early Life and Inspiration
Patricia Coombs loved reading from a very young age. She once shared that she was often told to stop reading and go outside. But she loved books so much that she would find secret spots to read. She would hide behind her brother's mouse cages or under lilac bushes. She says that even today, the smells of mice and lilacs remind her of certain stories. This shows how much reading meant to her, even as a child.
Her own family later inspired her to write. Patricia Coombs started writing and drawing stories for her two daughters. Her youngest daughter, along with their Siamese cat named Dingbat, became the main inspiration for Dorrie and her cat, Gink. This is how the popular Dorrie the Little Witch series began!
Education and Career
Patricia Coombs went to DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. She then continued her studies at the University of Washington. There, she earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in 1947. She also received her Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in English literature in 1950. Her love for literature and storytelling helped her become the successful author and illustrator she is today.