Norman Bridwell, who created the childhood staple "Clifford The Big Red Dog" has died at 86.
He died Dec. 12 in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, CNN reports.
Bridwell began his career as a freelance artist in 1962. The Clifford series sprung from a piece of art he drew for his daughter, Emily, who became a character in the books.
"Clifford The Big Red Dog" went on to sell 60 million copies over 40 titles, according to the Martha's Vineyard Times.
Gavin Stern is a national digital producer for the Scripps National Desk. Follow him on twitter at @GavinStern.