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Norman Bridwell (1928-2014) was an American author and illustrator best known for creating Clifford the Big Red Dog, one of the most beloved characters in children’s literature. Born in Kokomo, Indiana, Bridwell studied art at the John Herron Art Institute before moving to New York City to pursue his career in illustration.
Bridwell’s breakthrough came in 1963 with the publication of Clifford the Big Red Dog, which became an instant classic and spawned a series that would eventually include over 80 books. His warm, colorful illustrations and gentle storytelling have made his books essential reading for preschoolers and early elementary school children worldwide.
Best Norman Bridwell Books To Read
1. Clifford the Big Red Dog
Clifford the Big Red Dog is the book that started it all, so it deserves the top spot in this list. It introduces the giant dog and his girl, Emily Elizabeth, with the colorful illustrations the storybooks have been well-known for.
The original Clifford book was published in 1963. The fantastical world of a giant dog the size of a house could put Bridwell among the best fantasy authors, but in reality, it simply shows that he loved writing books for kids. So, if you are introducing a child to Clifford, this is the book to start with. Consider adding Clifford’s Puppy Days next, as it shows what the big red dog was like when he was a tiny puppy.
“Other kids I know have dogs, too. Some are big dogs. And some are red dogs. But I have the biggest, reddest dog on our street. This is my dog - Clifford.”
Norman Bridwell
2. Clifford’s Kitten
What happens when Emily Elizabeth gets a new pet, a tiny kitten? Clifford gets a little jealous. Clifford’s Kitten explores what happens when a new person, or animal, comes into someone’s life. It can help young children know there’s always enough love. This picture book is so fun because Clifford tries to do many things the kitten does. But because he’s so big, he can’t get into trouble. This book was originally published in 1984.
“He was so small that Mom said he could sleep in my room. He slept in the basket Clifford had used for a bed when he was a puppy. I think Clifford was a little jealous.”
Norman Bridwell
3. Clifford Goes to Kindergarten
When Emily Elizabeth’s teacher says each student can bring something from home on the first day of Kindergarten, readers can quickly guess what the little girl brings - her best friend, Clifford. The amount of mischief the big red dog gets into on the first day of kindergarten is quite fun to read about. Clifford Goes to Kindergarten, which was published in 2015 after Bridwell’s death by Scholastic, helps many young kids feel safer about the first day of school. It’s a perfect story about friendship, school anxiety, and finding where you belong.
“I wanted to bring my dog Clifford to school for show-and-tell. My teacher said okay. Clifford was excited. He had never been to school before.”
Norman Bridwell
4. Clifford’s Good Deeds
In this heartwarming story, Clifford tries his best to be helpful around the neighborhood, but his enormous size leads to some humorous mishaps. Clifford’s Good Deeds teaches children about the importance of trying to help others, even when things don’t go as planned. The book shows that good intentions matter most, and it encourages kids to keep trying to do good deeds despite setbacks. The book was first published in 1985 and remains a favorite for teaching children about kindness and perseverance.
“Clifford saw me getting ready for school. He wanted to help. He brought me my books. All of them.”
Norman Bridwell
5. Clifford’s Family
Clifford fans are pleased to learn that Clifford has a family - including a brother and sisters who live all over the big city and not out in the country like them. This is the main story of Clifford’s Family. Kids get a kick out of seeing their favorite big red dog trying to fit in the city. Readers were introduced to Clifford’s family for the first time in 1982. Then, in 2005, the book got reformatted for Scholastic.
“Clifford hadn’t seen his mother since he was a tiny puppy. She hardly knew him.”
Norman Bridwell
6. The Witch Next Door
While Norman Bridwell is best known for his Clifford books, he also wrote The Witch Next Door series. The first book was published in 1969 and told of two children who become friends with a new neighbor, who happens to be a witch. However, this isn’t a scary tale, as she is a kindhearted, considerate, helpful neighbor. This book is a great companion to Clifford’s First Halloween. It is a perfect read-aloud for the holiday season.
“I was sure of it when she painted her house. Black isn’t my favorite color, but after all, it’s her house.”
Norman Bridwell
FAQs About Best Norman Bridwell Books
What was the first book Norman Bridwell wrote?
Norman Bridwell’s first book was Clifford the Big Red Dog, published in 1963. Most of his success came from the Clifford series. He also wrote The Witch Next Door, How to Care for Your Monster, and A Tiny Family, but it is Clifford he is best known for.
How many Clifford books are there?
There are over 75 Clifford titles in publication. Some of these are books and board books for very young readers that use Bridwell’s characters but were not written by Bridwell directly. Some are based on the Clifford cartoon series on PBS Kids.
What age group are Norman Bridwell books appropriate for?
Norman Bridwell books are primarily designed for children ages 3-8, though the simple text and engaging illustrations make them accessible for beginning readers of any age. They’re perfect for read-aloud sessions and early independent reading.
Why is Clifford the Big Red Dog so popular with children?
Clifford’s popularity stems from his combination of being both extraordinary (giant size) and relatable (loyal, friendly, sometimes makes mistakes). Children love the gentle giant concept and the unconditional love between Clifford and Emily Elizabeth.
Related Reading Lists
If you enjoyed these Norman Bridwell book recommendations, explore our other children’s book collections:
- Best Dr. Seuss Books - Classic rhyming stories that delight young readers
- Best Children’s Books - Essential reading for kids of all ages
- Best Picture Books - Beautiful illustrated stories for young children
- Best Maurice Sendak Books - Imaginative tales from another beloved author
Why Norman Bridwell’s Books Remain Timeless
Norman Bridwell’s books have remained popular for over 50 years because they capture the essence of childhood imagination and unconditional love. The benefits of reading these classic stories include:
- Building Emotional Intelligence - Stories explore themes of friendship, loyalty, and acceptance
- Encouraging Reading - Simple text and engaging plots motivate reluctant readers
- Teaching Life Lessons - Gentle moral guidance about kindness, responsibility, and empathy
- Fostering Imagination - Fantastical elements like a giant red dog spark creative thinking
- Creating Bonds - Perfect for parent-child reading time and family discussions
These timeless stories continue to introduce new generations to the joy of reading while teaching valuable life lessons through beloved characters. Norman Bridwell’s legacy lives on in every child who discovers the magic of Clifford and his adventures.
