We will miss you, Jean Craighead George

We have lost another giant in the children’s literature field.  Jean Craighead George, author of more than 100 books, had passed away.  She died  at age 92 on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 from complications due to a stroke. Her writing reflected her love and concern for wildlife and the environment.  My Side of the Mountain (1959) was named a Newbery Honor book.  She received the Newbery Medal in 1973 for Julie of the Wolves.  Her last book created with illustrator Wendell Minor, The Eagles Are Back is due for release in March 2013. Her books connected with young readers, as evidenced by the Letters About Literature written to her.  To quote one such reader, “My Side of the Mountain literally changed my life.  Ever since I first read the book in fourth grade I’ve loved the outdoors. I used to sit inside, play video games, and watch television. But, now I love going outside and stay out there for hours and hours, especially in the summer.”  I’m sure Ms. George was pleased to know another child had discovered her beautiful outdoors.