Beverly Atlee Cleary was an American writer renowned for her children's and young adult fiction. As one of America's most successful authors, her books have sold over 91 million copies globally since her debut book was published in 1950. Some of her most beloved characters include Ramona Quimby, Beezus Quimby, Henry Huggins and his dog Ribsy, and Ralph S. Mouse.

The majority of Cleary's books are set in the Grant Park neighborhood of northeast Portland, Oregon, reflecting the area where she was raised. She was among the first children's literature authors to incorporate emotional realism into her narratives, often featuring children from middle-class families. Her inaugural children's book was Henry Huggins, inspired by a question from a child during her tenure as a librarian.

Cleary's accolades include the 1981 National Book Award for Ramona and Her Mother and the 1984 Newbery Medal for Dear Mr. Henshaw. Her lifetime contributions to American literature earned her the National Medal of Arts, recognition as a Library of Congress Living Legend, and the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal from the Association for Library Service to Children. The Beverly Cleary School, a public school in Portland, and several statues of her famous characters in Grant Park, honor her legacy.

Cleary was born in McMinnville, Oregon, and spent her early years on a farm in Yamhill, a small town without a library. Her love for reading was nurtured by her mother, who arranged for books to be sent from the State Library. Despite early struggles with reading, Cleary overcame them by third grade and was encouraged by her school librarian to write for boys and girls. Her characters and stories, such as Ramona Quimby, Age 8, were inspired by her own experiences and her surroundings.

Her books have received more than thirty-five statewide awards based on the direct votes of young readers. Cleary was also the 1984 United States author nominee for the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award. Her legacy continues to inspire, with her books published in twenty-nine languages, bringing joy and relatability to children worldwide.