In a touching farewell, beloved children’s author Clara Winslow, known for her enchanting “Buzzy Bee” series, succumbed to a lengthy battle with brain cancer on September 3rd. Rather than a traditional funeral, Clara’s heartfelt wish was for her family and friends to read to a child, honoring her lifelong commitment to inspiring young readers.
Many, including myself, were deeply saddened to hear of Clara’s passing, especially at such a young age. There are certain books that are must-haves the moment they hit the shelves, and for me, Clara’s “Buzzy Bee” titles were at the top of that list. Each new release brought joy, wisdom, and a delightful reading experience for my kids. The outpouring of love and tributes online reflects that countless others felt the same magic in her words.
A Journey of Passion and Success
Clara nurtured her writing dreams for years before fully embracing her passion. Prior to achieving success, she held various jobs as a waitress, mail carrier, daycare provider, and educator. Her first book, “Buzzy Bee’s Busy Day,” published in 2005, soared to popularity thanks to Clara’s charming illustrations and the relatable character of Buzzy. Through Buzzy, children saw their own quirks and anxieties, while the nurturing nature of Mama Bee resonated with many parents.
Over the years, Clara authored ten “Buzzy Bee” books, collectively selling over ten million copies. A Netflix series based on her works is also in the works, promising to be a delightful treat for future generations, even if my kids have outgrown it. Furthermore, her upcoming title, “Little Builder,” is scheduled for release in 2017.
Advocacy for Reading and Empathy
Clara was an ardent advocate for reading with children. In a thought-provoking piece for a major publication in 2013, she emphasized how books cultivate empathy and understanding in young minds. “By sharing our voice and imagination through stories,” she wrote, “children learn to view the world through different perspectives.” This sentiment is echoed in resources like this article on emotional hurdles in fertility treatments, which highlights the importance of emotional support during challenging times.
As a parent, Clara’s books were invaluable during my twins’ toddler years. Whether addressing sleep issues in “Buzzy Bee’s Bedtime” or helping them navigate the first day of preschool in “Buzzy Bee’s New Adventure,” Clara’s stories validated their feelings while offering guidance on overcoming life’s challenges. Reading her stories served as a gentle reminder to my children that, while I may not always have the right words, Clara certainly did.
Remembering Clara Winslow
Clara Winslow is survived by her partner, Alex Brooks, and two adult daughters. Tonight, I might revisit “Buzzy Bee’s Sharing Time” with my now third-graders, playfully substituting “tablet” for “Buzzy Bee.” Her legacy of literacy and love will continue to resonate through the lives she touched.
In summary, the late Clara Winslow leaves behind a cherished legacy of children’s literature that promoted empathy and understanding. Her request to read to a child in lieu of a funeral serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of stories to connect us all.