Norman Bridwell


Norman Ray Bridwell was an American author and cartoonist best known for the Clifford the Big Red Dog book series.

Early life

Bridwell was born on February 15, 1928 in Kokomo, Indiana, to Leona and Vern Bridwell. He graduated from Kokomo High School in 1945, and went on to attend John Herron School of Art at Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, and Cooper Union, in New York City.

Career

Bridwell put together a portfolio and attempted to get a job as a children's book illustrator but was rejected by around fifteen publishing houses. While at Harper & Row, an editor offhandedly suggested he turn one of his drawings into a story. The drawing was of a young girl and a horse-sized bloodhound, and the story became Clifford the Big Red Dog. That book spawned over 40 best-selling Clifford books, three animated television series, merchandise, a live musical and a live-action film that is in development.
Bridwell's other successful books include The Witch Next Door, and A Tiny Family. There are over 126 million copies of his books in print in 13 languages.

Personal life

By 1962, Bridwell was married to his wife Norma Howard, and they had a daughter Emily Elizabeth, as well as a son named Timothy. At the time of his death, they had three grandchildren.
The Bridwells resided in Edgartown on Martha's Vineyard, from 1969 until his death.

Death

Bridwell died on December 12, 2014 at the age of 86. His funeral was held at the Federated Church on South Summer street in Edgartown. His ashes were given to his son, Timothy.