Barbara Cooney

Date of Birth: August 6, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: March 10, 2000

Biography

Barbara Cooney was an esteemed American writer and illustrator of children’s books, celebrated for her distinct artistic style and engaging storytelling. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Cooney was influenced by her artistic mother and her upbringing in a creative environment. She attended Smith College, where she majored in art history. Cooney’s career spanned over six decades, during which she wrote and illustrated more than 100 books. Her works are notable for their rich, detailed illustrations and thoughtful narratives that often explore themes of nature, history, and personal growth. Among her most famous books are “Miss Rumphius,” “Ox-Cart Man,” and “Chanticleer and the Fox,” the latter of which won her the prestigious Caldecott Medal in 1959. Cooney received a second Caldecott Medal in 1980 for her illustrations in “Ox-Cart Man,” written by Donald Hall. Barbara Cooney’s legacy continues to influence and inspire new generations of readers and illustrators. Her contributions to children’s literature have earned her numerous awards and accolades, cementing her status as a beloved figure in the literary world.

5 Interesting Facts about Barbara Cooney

1. Barbara Cooney illustrated more than 100 books throughout her career.

2. She won two Caldecott Medals, one in 1959 for “Chanticleer and the Fox” and another in 1980 for “Ox-Cart Man.”

3. Cooney was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1996.

4. Her book “Miss Rumphius” won the American Book Award in 1983.

5. Barbara Cooney’s work often featured strong female protagonists and themes of self-discovery and adventure.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Barbara Cooney

1. “You must do something to make the world more beautiful.”

2. “I believe that children in this country need a more robust literary diet than they are getting.”

3. “I shall go on to the end, and as long as I can, I will continue to create books for children.”

4. “To be a good illustrator, you have to be a good observer.”

5. “The books we read as children have a tremendous impact on our lives.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Barbara Cooney’s highest net worth achieved was estimated to be around $1.5 million.

Children

Barbara Cooney had four children: Gretel, Barnaby, Phoebe, and Charlie. They were often an inspiration for her work and contributed to her understanding of what captivates a young audience.