John Newbery

The Father of Children's Literature
1713-1767

•English publisher who made children’s literature sustainable and profitable

•Published about 100 children’s books, including ABC books, children’s novels, and magazines

•Wrote his own books as well as published books by Samuel Johnson and Oliver Goldsmith

•First children’s book was published in 1744, A Little Pretty Pocket-Book, and cost six pence, but for an extra tuppence, the purchaser received a red and black ball or a pincushion.

The John Newbery Award is given each year by the American Library Association to the premier title in children's literature.