Classic Children's Literature Authors the Berenstains

The Berenstain Bears are well-loved, classic characters in the realm of children's literature. Creators Jan and Stan Berenstain started out as cartoonists who later introduced young readers to their endearing bear family. Through the decades, children have related to the various scenarios contained within these stories. The Berenstain Bears continue to entertain and teach young readers in their own unique fashion.

When students Jan Grant and Stan Berenstain met at the Philadelphia College of Art in 1941, they had no way of knowing that they'd started down the path to success in the world of children's literature. These native Philadelphians, both born in 1923, quickly found they had a great deal in common. They were both artistic, imaginative, and had tremendous creative talents. After marrying in April of 1946, the couple started on creative work together as cartoonists. They brought to life a successful cartoon entitled, "All in the Family." The Berenstains soon welcomed two sons, Michael and Leo, into their family. The young boys took a liking to the quirky, humorous work of Dr. Seuss. The Berenstains admired Dr. Seuss' work and decided to try their hand at writing for children. In 1962, under the guidance of Dr. Seuss, the Berenstains created their first book for beginning readers entitled, The Big Honey Hunt. Not surprisingly, bears are the stars of this popular book.

Since the release of that first book, the Berenstains' creations have won over the hearts of generations of readers. A work entitled, The Berenstain Bears' New Baby was released in 1974. This was the first book in a series called, "First Time Books." A mixture of relatable experiences and humor in their stories combined to earn the Berenstains a loyal following of young readers. Michael, a son of Jan and Stan Berenstain, also contributes his creative efforts by writing and illustrating the Berenstain stories. The Berenstain Bear stories have expanded from books to television as well as video. In short, the familiar characters are appreciated in a variety of formats.

The Berenstains have earned a number of awards for their work. Among them are honors from the Philadelphia Children's Literary Roundtable, a Children's Choice Award, as well as the Ludington Award. With well over 200 million books sold and a dedicated following of young readers, the stories of the Berenstain Bear family have proven themselves to be enduring classics.  

For further information on the The Berenstains and their work, please visit:

• All about the Berenstains and Their Creations: Read about the Berenstains, their work, and the characters they created.
• Profile of Children's Authors Jan and Stan Berenstain: Learn about the meeting of Jan and Stan Berenstain as well as how they started their pursuits to write for children.
• Facts about Author Stanley Berenstain: Discover facts about Stanley Berenstain, his education, and his memorable children's writing endeavors.
• An Interview Featuring the Berenstains: Find answers offered by the Berenstains to intriguing questions about their work.
• The Berenstain's Writing: Checkout some of the awards that the Berenstain's creative work has earned as well as other information about their writing.
• Themes of the Berenstain Books: Find a list of the Berenstain's work divided into categories of themes.
• Overview of the Berenstain's Imaginative Work: Peruse biographical information about the Berenstains, information about their first book, and much more.
• Biographical Profile of Jan Berenstain: Learn some background facts about Jan Berenstain as well as information on her work with her husband, Stan.
• Books of the Berenstains: Read about a son of Jan and Stan Berenstain and the work he has contributed.
• Thoughts from an Author: Find an interview of Stan Berenstain regarding one of his Berenstain books with a timely theme.
• Background of the Berenstains: Read about the lives and work of the children's writers, the Berenstains.
• A Look at the Berenstain's Autobiography: Features a review of Stan and Jan Berenstain's autobiography.
• An Interview on the Berenstain's Work: Checkout an interview concerning the Berenstain's work.
• The Creative Work of the Berenstains: Read about the imaginative work of the Berenstains.