Cynthia Rylant
Full Name and Common Aliases
Cynthia Rylant is an American author of children's books.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: August 6, 1954 (still alive)
No death date listed.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession: Children's Author
Early Life and Background
Cynthia Rylant was born in Los Angeles, California. She grew up in a family of modest means and developed a love for reading at an early age. Her parents encouraged her love of literature, providing her with access to books that helped shape her imagination.
Rylant's upbringing played a significant role in her writing style and themes. Her stories often reflect the hardships faced by families struggling financially, as well as the beauty found in everyday life. This unique perspective has contributed significantly to her body of work, which is both poignant and heartwarming.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout her career, Rylant has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to children's literature. Some notable achievements include:
- Newbery Medal (1992): Rylant won the prestigious Newbery Medal for "Missing May," a novel that explores themes of love, loss, and family bonds.
- National Book Award Finalist (2000): Her novel "The Standardized Test" was selected as a finalist for the National Book Award.
Notable Works or Actions
Cynthia Rylant has published over 100 books for children. Some notable works include:
- "Henry and Mudge" series: This popular series follows the adventures of two young friends, Henry and his big dog Mudge.
- "Missing May": A poignant novel that explores themes of love, loss, and family bonds.
- "The Standardized Test": A critically acclaimed novel that explores the complexities of school life.
Impact and Legacy
Cynthia Rylant's contributions to children's literature have been significant. Her stories have touched the lives of millions of readers worldwide, providing them with relatable characters and experiences. Her ability to tackle difficult subjects like poverty and loss has helped create a more empathetic society.
Rylant's legacy extends beyond her individual works. She has paved the way for future generations of authors, demonstrating that children's literature can be both accessible and meaningful.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Cynthia Rylant is widely quoted or remembered due to her unique ability to create relatable characters and stories that resonate with readers of all ages. Her exploration of complex themes like poverty, loss, and love has helped create a more empathetic society. As an author, she continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers alike.
Her contributions to children's literature have left a lasting impact on the world of publishing. Rylant's work serves as a reminder that stories can be both entertaining and meaningful, inspiring young readers to explore their own creativity and imagination.
Quotes by Cynthia Rylant
Cynthia Rylant's insights on:
The war was just a mile or so away, and I wondered at my simply walking to it, as I might walk to the market or to school. Today I will walk to the war.
It is a grace that comes, unexpected, after tragedy- this reminder that most hearts are good.
That’s got to be at least one of the benefits of heaven – never having to act normal again.
Drop some of them bricks you keep hauling around with you. Life just ain’t that heavy.
But what is it that makes a person want to stay here on this earth anyway, and go on suffering the most awful pain just for the sake of getting to stay? I used to think it was because people fear death. But now I think it is because people can’t bear saying goodbye.
In November, people are good to each other. They carry pies to each other’s homes and talk by crackling woodstoves, sipping mellow cider. They travel very far on a special November day just to share a meal with one another and to give thanks for their many blessings – for the food on their tables and the babies in their arms.
It is odd how we sometimes deny ourselves the very pleasure we have longed for and which is finally within our reach.
I love being a writer because I want to leave something here on earth to make it better, prettier, stronger.
Every person is able to add beauty, whether by growing flowers, or singing, or cooking luscious meals, or raising sweet pets. Every part of life can be art.