Andrew Clements

Andrew Elborn Clements (1949-2019) was an American author celebrated for his contributions to children's literature. Born in New Jersey, he developed a passion for reading during summers spent at a lakeside cabin in Maine. After earning degrees in English Literature and Elementary Education, Clements dedicated his career to fostering a love of reading in young people, first as a teacher and later by working with publishing companies. He also served as an editor and developer of children's books. His own writing career began with the picture book "Bird Delbert" in 1985, but it was his middle-grade novel "Frindle" that gained significant recognition, earning numerous state book awards and the Christopher Award. Clements authored a vast body of work, including popular series like "Jake Drake" and "Benjamin Pratt and the Keepers of the School," and his books frequently appeared on recommended reading lists. He passed away in Maine at the age of 70.

Andrew Elborn Clements was born on May 29, 1949, in Camden, New Jersey. His childhood included periods living in Oaklyn and Cherry Hill before his family relocated to Springfield, Illinois. Summers spent at a Maine lake cabin were formative, filled with outdoor activities like swimming and hiking, alongside a deep enjoyment of reading. He pursued higher education at Northwestern University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, and later obtained a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from National Louis University. This academic background equipped him to work with young readers and writers.

Clements' career was dedicated to children's books. He began as an educator, teaching elementary, middle, and high school students and sharing his enthusiasm for reading. He then transitioned into the publishing industry, working for various companies where he was involved in acquiring, editing, marketing, and developing children's literature. In 1985, he launched his own writing career with the picture book "Bird Delbert." His first novel, "Frindle," published in 1996, achieved considerable success, winning 16 state book awards and the Christopher Award. He continued to write prolifically, producing novels and series that resonated with young audiences.

Andrew Clements' most famous work is likely "Frindle," a novel recognized for its imaginative premise and its reception by young readers. The book was particularly noted for winning awards determined by the votes of schoolchildren across the U.S. and was later honored with the Phoenix Award for being a significant book that had not received a major award at the time of its publication. His bibliography includes a wide range of titles for various age groups, often exploring themes relevant to school and childhood experiences. His books frequently appeared on prestigious lists and received awards from educational and library organizations, underscoring their impact and quality.