$50,00 million
Apr 12, 1916
109 years old
As of 2025, Beverly Cleary Net Worth is $50,00 million. Beverly Atlee Cleary was a legendary American author known for creating timeless stories for children and young adults.
Born on April 12, 1916, in McMinnville, Oregon, Beverly Cleary became one of the most beloved figures in children’s literature. Her works, like Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins, have made an everlasting impact on generations of readers.
. Throughout her career, Beverly Cleary received numerous accolades, including the Newbery Medal, a testament to her remarkable influence on children’s literature.
With her deep connection to the real experiences of children, Beverly Cleary was able to build a world where kids felt understood.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Beverly Atlee Cleary (née Bunn) |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1916 |
| Place of Birth | McMinnville, Oregon, United States |
| Date of Death | March 25, 2021 |
| Age at Death | 104 years old |
| Occupation | Author, Librarian |
| Genres | Children’s Literature, Young Adult Fiction |
| Known For | Writing Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, Ralph S. Mouse, and other beloved children’s books |
| Spouse | Clarence Cleary (married in 1940, passed away in 2004) |
| Children | Ian (son, born 1943), Margaret (daughter, born 1946) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | English, Scots-Irish |
| Education | Graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in English and Library Science |
| Career Start | 1950, with the publication of Henry Huggins |
| First Published Book | Henry Huggins (1950) |
| Famous Works | Beezus and Ramona (1955), Ramona Quimby, Age 8 (1981), Dear Mr. Henshaw (1983) |
| Awards | Newbery Medal (1984 for Dear Mr. Henshaw), National Book Award, Hans Christian Andersen Award |
| Major Achievements | Translated into over 25 languages, 40+ books published, books adapted into TV shows and movies, received numerous literary accolades |
| Legacy | Known as one of the most influential authors in children’s literature, leaving an enduring impact through her relatable stories |
| Influences | Her childhood in Oregon, experience as a librarian, and passion for capturing the essence of childhood struggles |
| Writing Style | Realistic, humorous, relatable, focused on childhood experiences and everyday problems |
| Popular Characters | Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, Beezus, Ralph S. Mouse, Socks the Cat, Ellen Tebbits |
| Books Adapted to Film | Ramona and Beezus (2010), Henry Huggins (television series), The Mouse and the Motorcycle (film adaptations) |
| Influence on Children’s Literature | Pioneered realistic depictions of childhood; emphasized issues like sibling rivalry, school challenges, and the importance of imagination in children’s growth |
| Publications | Over 40 books published, including novels, short stories, and picture books |
| Retirement | Retired from writing in 1999, but her books continued to be beloved by new generations of readers |
| Honors | Inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame, several lifetime achievement awards in children’s literature |
| Posthumous Recognition | Even after passing, Beverly Cleary‘s books continue to be celebrated in schools and libraries worldwide; her works are a staple of children’s literature |
| Residence | Lived in California from the 1960s onward |
| Cause of Death | Natural causes |
| Place of Death | Los Angeles, California |
| Fun Fact | Beverly Cleary wrote her first book, Henry Huggins, while working as a librarian, inspired by the children she met in libraries |
| Fan Following | Generations of readers worldwide have grown up with Beverly Cleary‘s books, and she is beloved by both young readers and adults. |
Beverly Cleary is one of the most renowned authors in children’s literature, best known for creating beloved characters like Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, and Ralph S. Mouse.
Growing up in Portland, Oregon, Beverly Cleary drew inspiration from her own experiences as a young girl. After pursuing an education in library science, Beverly Cleary went on to become a writer, gaining fame for her realistic and humorous portrayals of childhood.
What made Beverly Cleary stand out was her ability to capture the complexities and challenges children face in their daily lives, making her books relatable for readers of all ages.
Her works have been translated into dozens of languages, and she has earned countless awards, including the prestigious Newbery Medal. Beverly Cleary had a remarkable gift for blending humor with heart, which made her stories both entertaining and meaningful.
Her passion for writing and connection to young readers kept her career flourishing for decades. Beverly Cleary’s influence remains strong even after she died in 2021, with her books continuing to be a staple in classrooms and libraries worldwide.
Beverly Cleary was born to a humble family in McMinnville, Oregon, on April 12, 1916. She was the only child of Charles and Mable Bunn. Growing up, Beverly Cleary struggled with being a shy, introverted child, but she found solace in books.
As a young girl, she had trouble finding books that truly represented children like her, which later inspired her to write stories that children could relate to.
Beverly Cleary attended several schools in Oregon and eventually earned a degree in English and Library Science from the University of Washington. She would later go on to work as a librarian before embarking on her writing career.
Her experiences with children in libraries gave her valuable insights into the lives and interests of young readers. Beverly Cleary was also deeply influenced by her close-knit family, who supported her passion for literature.
Her early life helped shape her understanding of childhood struggles, which she would later portray with empathy in her stories.
Beverly Cleary’s connection to her family and her experiences growing up in Oregon contributed significantly to the authenticity of her works.
Beverly Cleary was an American by nationality, born in McMinnville, Oregon. Of English and Scots-Irish descent, Beverly Cleary was proud of her roots and often referenced the cultural aspects of her upbringing in her work.
Although Beverly Cleary didn’t explicitly focus on her ethnic background in her books, her experience growing up in Oregon as part of a working-class family shaped the relatable nature of her stories.
She often drew inspiration from the landscape and community of Oregon, reflecting the regional and social context that influenced her characters.
Being part of a diverse and evolving society, Beverly Cleary also understood the struggles of children from different walks of life, which added depth to her characters.
Over the years, Beverly Cleary became a voice for young readers, offering them books that felt both familiar and universal.
While her ethnic background was not the focal point of her writing, her ability to resonate with a wide range of young people made her a household name in children’s literature.
Beverly Cleary‘s career spanned over six decades, and her writing legacy began in the 1950s. In 1950, she published her first book, Henry Huggins, which introduced readers to the beloved characters of Portland.
The success of Henry Huggins led to more books, including the iconic Ramona Quimby series, which began with Beezus and Ramona in 1955. These stories resonated with children everywhere due to their relatable and humorous depictions of family life.
Over the years, Beverly Cleary published over 40 books, earning numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal for Dear Mr. Henshaw in 1984. Her works also received the National Book Award and were frequently adapted into television and film.
Beverly Cleary’s ability to capture the essence of childhood and depict characters with emotional depth made her a literary icon. Her career continued to thrive into the 2000s, with new generations discovering her books.
Even after her retirement in 1999, Beverly Cleary remained a beloved figure in children’s literature. Her last book, Ramona’s World, was published in 1999, and she passed away in 2021, leaving behind a vast and enduring legacy.
Throughout Beverly Cleary‘s illustrious career, she largely remained free of any major controversies. Her works were primarily beloved and celebrated by readers and critics alike.
However, there were some occasional criticisms of her stories, particularly surrounding the portrayal of characters and situations that some readers considered outdated. For instance, certain elements in her books, particularly those written in the 1950s and 1960s, were viewed as not as culturally inclusive by modern standards.
Some parents and educators raised concerns about aspects of race and gender representation in her works. Despite these occasional criticisms, Beverly Cleary was a trailblazer for introducing relatable and honest portrayals of childhood in an era when children’s literature was often more idealized.
Over time, Beverly Cleary adapted her writing to reflect changing societal attitudes. Her books were always more focused on the experiences of real children, warts and all.
As such, the so-called controversies were often tempered by her wide-reaching influence and the universal appeal of her stories.
Beverly Cleary’s ability to foster empathy and understanding in her readers has kept her legacy intact, overcoming any minor criticisms that might have arisen throughout her long career.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Beverly Atlee Cleary (née Bunn) |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1916 |
| Place of Birth | McMinnville, Oregon, United States |
| Date of Death | March 25, 2021 |
| Age at Death | 104 years old |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Estimated around 130 pounds (59 kg) during her adulthood (not widely documented, but based on visual appearances in photos from later years) |
| Body Type | Slim, petite |
| Hair Color | Dark brown (later gray as she aged) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
| Facial Features | Beverly Cleary had soft, rounded facial features, often with a warm and approachable expression. Her smile was described as kind and welcoming. |
| Notable Features | Beverly Cleary was known for her elegant, unpretentious demeanor, carrying herself with quiet confidence. She had a timeless, modest appearance. |
| Style | Conservative and simple fashion, typically seen in practical, professional attire as she attended various literary events and awards ceremonies. |
| Hair Style | Short to medium length in later years, often styled neatly, with the typical style of older women having gray hair in her later years. |
| Posture | Graceful posture, conveying confidence in her public appearances despite being a very private individual. |
| Health | She lived a long life and, by most accounts, appeared to age gracefully without notable health issues in her public appearances until her later years. |
| Physical Activity | No specific information on her physical activity habits, but her long life and robust career suggest a balanced lifestyle. |
| Significant Appearances | Appeared at numerous book signings, literary events, and interviews throughout her career, often looking modest and approachable, staying true to her humble nature. |
| Fashion Preference | Modest and classic; photographs often show her wearing conservative blouses, skirts, and dresses, representing her practical approach to life. |
| Facial Expression | Expressive, often characterized by a warm and sincere smile, which reflected her nurturing and empathetic nature as an author. |
| Typical Attire | Often wore simple, comfortable clothing, including cardigans, blouses, and skirts, typical of women of her generation who valued function over fashion. |
| Complexion | Fair skin, which became more delicate as she aged, with no significant skin issues noted in public appearances. |
| Voice and Demeanor | Calm, warm, and clear; her voice reflected her gentle and kind personality, often speaking with care during interviews and public engagements. |
In 1940, Beverly Cleary married Clarence Cleary, a former U.S. Army soldier, and they were together for over 50 years. Clarence worked as a university professor and was a supportive partner throughout Beverly Cleary‘s writing career.
The couple had two children: a son, Ian, born in 1943, and a daughter, Margaret, born in 1946. The Cleary family shared a close relationship, with Beverly Cleary often drawing on her own experiences as a mother to inform her books.
She and Clarence lived in California for much of their lives after moving there in the 1960s. Clarence passed away in 2004, which left Beverly Cleary with a deep sense of loss.
Despite being widowed, Beverly Cleary remained committed to her writing, continuing to craft stories that spoke to generations of young readers.
Her books reflect the love and wisdom she gained from her family life, as well as her deep understanding of the joys and challenges of childhood. Beverly Cleary’s relationship with her family, especially with her children, was integral to the emotional depth and authenticity of her writing.
Beverly Cleary Net Worth 2025
As of 2025, Beverly Cleary‘s net worth is $50,00 million. Throughout her career, Beverly Cleary built a substantial fortune through her widely successful books, which continue to generate revenue through book sales, adaptations, and licensing deals.
Beverly Cleary‘s works, such as the Ramona and Henry Huggins series, remain classics in children’s literature, ensuring that her estate still receives income from both new and continued book sales.
The licensing of her books into television shows, movies, and other media also added to her wealth. Given the enduring popularity of her works, her estate will likely continue to earn money in the coming years.
Even though Beverly Cleary is no longer with us, her literary legacy is a lasting testament to her remarkable career and financial success. Through the continued sales of her books, Beverly Cleary remains one of the most influential and wealthy figures in children’s literature.
| Social Media Platform | Account Status | Details |
| Inactive (Official accounts run by fans/estate) | Beverly Cleary did not have a personal Twitter account, but there are fan accounts dedicated to sharing her work and legacy. Posts often feature quotes from her books and tributes to her life. | |
| Inactive (Managed by estate/fans) | Beverly Cleary had no personal Instagram, but her books and legacy are celebrated through fan accounts. Posts typically share images of her books, illustrations, and fans paying homage. | |
| Active (Posthumous fan pages) | Fans of Beverly Cleary can follow fan pages dedicated to her legacy. These pages share book updates, celebrations of her life, and fan-created content. Some official pages may be managed by her estate. |
Beverly Cleary’s net worth was estimated at around $50,00 million at the time of her passing. Much of this fortune came from royalties, book sales, film adaptations, and her successful literary career. Her continued influence ensures her estate remains lucrative, contributing to her lasting financial legacy in the literary world.
Beverly Cleary earned her wealth primarily through book sales, royalties from adaptations, and licensing. Her books, especially the Ramona series, were hugely successful and remained in print for decades. Additionally, film and TV adaptations of her works helped generate revenue, further bolstering her income.
Besides her literary income, Beverly Cleary likely earned money from speaking engagements, public appearances, and interviews. As a celebrated author, she was also offered opportunities to promote her works in various ways, which added to her net worth over the years.
Yes, Beverly Cleary‘s estate continues to generate income from the sales of her books and adaptations. Her characters, like Ramona and Henry, remain popular, and the ongoing success of her books ensures that her estate earns money even after her passing.
Beverly Cleary’s literary success directly impacted her wealth, as her books were sold in large quantities worldwide. Her continued popularity, adaptations into movies and TV shows, and merchandise ensured a steady stream of income, making her one of the wealthiest authors in children’s literature.
Her wealth primarily came from the sale of her books, royalties, film and television adaptations, and licensing of her characters. Her Ramona and Henry Huggins series became household names, ensuring her enduring legacy as a beloved author.
Despite her passing, Beverly Cleary’s estate continues to generate income as her books remain popular among new generations of readers, and her characters are adapted into films and television series.
The continued success of her works shows just how impactful her contributions to children’s literature were. As a result, her net worth will likely remain stable due to the ongoing appeal of her stories and characters.
Moreover, her influence on children’s literature is immeasurable, and her ability to capture childhood in its purest form remains the cornerstone of her lasting success.
Beverly Cleary’s net worth reflects her incredible contributions to the literary world, and her estate will likely continue to thrive for years to come, further cementing her status as one of the greatest authors of all time.
