What Was Beverly Cleary's Net Worth?
Beverly Cleary was an eminent American author with an impressive net worth of $50 million. Widely renowned for her contribution to children's literature, she was best known for the beloved 'Ramona Quimby' series. Over her illustrious career, Beverly sold over 90 million books globally. She passed away on March 25, 2021, in Carmel, California, at the age of 104.
Early Life
Born Beverly Atlee Bunn on April 12, 1916, in McMinnville, Oregon, Cleary spent her early years on a farm in Yamhill. At six, her family relocated to Portland, where her mother established a small library at their home. This home library played a crucial role in cultivating Beverly's love for books. Despite struggling with reading in her initial school years, these challenges later influenced her empathetic approach towards writing for children who faced similar struggles.
Career Beginnings
After graduating from junior college, Beverly attended the University of California, Berkeley, where she met her future husband, Clarence Cleary. Following her graduation, she pursued a degree in Librarianship at the University of Washington, completing it in 1939. Working as a children's librarian, Beverly recognized a significant gap in children's literature, which inspired her to craft stories involving characters in everyday adventures that young readers could relate to.
Writing Career
In 1950, Cleary published her debut book 'Henry Huggins,' introducing the iconic Klickitat Street in Portland, the same setting where her famous creation, Ramona Quimby, would later reside. Ramona, initially a supporting character, became a standout figure, eventually headlining her own series. Beverly's other celebrated works include 'The Mouse and the Motorcycle' and 'Dear Mr. Henshaw,' the latter earning the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1984.
Cleary's literature, characterized by its genuine and humorous storytelling, adeptly captured the essence of childhood. She had a remarkable ability to reconnect with her own childhood feelings and perspectives, allowing her to develop authentic and relatable characters that captivated young readers.
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Honors and Retirement
Throughout her career, Beverly Cleary received numerous accolades, including the National Book Award, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, and the Newbery Medal. In 2003, she was honored with the National Medal of Arts, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to children's literature.
In her later years, Cleary reduced her writing activities, but her books continued to resonate with and enchant new generations of readers. Her final book, 'Ramona's World,' was released in 1999.
Personal Life
Beverly married Clarence Cleary in 1940, and they settled in California, where they raised their twins, Marianne and Malcolm. Clarence passed away in 2004. Beverly Cleary lived a long, fulfilling life, ultimately passing away on March 25, 2021, at the venerable age of 104.
