Picture a storyteller who spun tales of spunky girls navigating life’s big moments with humor and heart—meet Laurie Friedman! Born in 1964 in Arkansas, this American children’s author has charmed young readers with her bestselling Mallory McDonald series and poignant April Sinclair books. With over 250 books to her name, Friedman’s knack for blending relatable struggles with life lessons has made her a beloved voice in children’s literature.
From her Southern roots to her vibrant Miami home, Friedman draws inspiration from her own experiences and her children, crafting stories that feel like a warm hug for kids facing change. Let’s dive into her journey, from a book-loving kid to an award-winning author who’s left a mark on young hearts.
The Making of Laurie Friedman
Laurie B. Friedman was born on January 28, 1964, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the eldest of three sisters. Growing up in Pine Bluff, she was always scribbling in journals, her love for stories sparked by classics like Nancy Drew. After studying English and French at Tulane University and the Sorbonne in Paris, she dove into the fast-paced world of New York advertising. But her heart was in storytelling. Inspired by her son’s fear of a new bed and her daughter’s dread of moving, Friedman penned her first book, A Big Bed for Jed, kicking off a career that turned personal moments into universal tales.
Laurie Friedman’s Unforgettable Stories
Friedman’s books are like a chat with a wise friend—funny, honest, and full of heart. Her flagship Mallory McDonald series, spanning 28 titles, follows a spirited girl tackling everything from new schools to sibling rivalries. In Mallory on the Move, young readers cheer as Mallory navigates a big move, mirroring Friedman’s daughter’s experience. With over a million copies in print, the series has been praised for its humor and relatability, earning comparisons to Judy Moody.
For older readers, The Mostly Miserable Life of April Sinclair series dives into the messy world of teens. Written in a journal format, it captures April’s struggles with family and friendships, resonating with kids craving authentic voices. Friedman’s picture books, like Love, Ruby Valentine, add a rhyming charm, teaching kids about love and resilience. Her easy-reader series, Silly Milly and Moose the Dog, delights emerging readers with playful antics. Each story weaves humor with lessons, making tough topics like change or self-discovery feel approachable.
What sets Friedman apart is her ability to channel real emotions into fictional worlds. Her characters, from Mallory’s pluck to April’s angst, mirror the highs and lows of growing up, making her books a go-to for kids and educators alike.
Why Laurie Friedman Matters
Laurie Friedman’s impact goes beyond pages. Her books, translated into languages like Chinese and French, have reached global audiences, earning accolades like the Children’s Choice Award and Bank Street College Best Book of the Year. By speaking at schools and mentoring aspiring authors, she inspires the next generation of storytellers. Her stories empower young readers to face challenges with courage, making her a quiet hero in children’s literature.
In a world where kids grapple with big changes, Friedman’s tales offer comfort and laughter, reminding them they’re not alone. Her legacy is in the countless readers who see themselves in Mallory or April and find the strength to keep going.
- Birth Date: January 28, 1964
- Key Works: Mallory McDonald series, The Mostly Miserable Life of April Sinclair, Love, Ruby Valentine
- Awards: Children’s Choice Award, Bank Street College Best Book of the Year
- Hometown: Miami, Florida
Snag Mallory on the Move or Love, Ruby Valentine and dive into Laurie Friedman’s heartwarming world of humor and hope!