Barbara Park was an esteemed American author, best known for her beloved “Junie B. Jones” children’s book series. Born on April 21, 1947, in Mount Holly Township, New Jersey, Park’s writing career was marked by her exceptional talent for capturing the voice and perspective of young children, a skill that endeared her to countless young readers and their families.
Park’s journey into writing began after she attended Rider College and the University of Alabama, where she initially pursued a career in teaching. However, her passion for writing soon led her down a different path. Her first book, “Operation: Dump the Chump,” was published in the early 1980s, but it was the creation of the “Junie B. Jones” series in 1992 that catapulted her to widespread acclaim.
The series, beginning with “Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus,” centers on the adventures and antics of Junie B. Jones, a kindergartener with a bold personality and a unique way of expressing herself. Park’s writing style in these books is noted for its humor, simplicity, and authenticity. She had a remarkable ability to think like a child, which made Junie B.’s experiences both relatable and entertaining for her young audience.
Throughout her career, Park wrote over 30 “Junie B. Jones” books, capturing the various trials and tribulations of childhood with humor and honesty. Her work in the series and other children’s books has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades.
Junie B. Jones book series.
In addition to her children’s books, Park also wrote several novels for adults, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her contributions to children’s literature have been significant, particularly in early reading. Park’s books not only provided laughter and enjoyment but also helped young readers develop a love for reading.
Barbara Park passed away on November 15, 2013, but her legacy lives on through her work. Her “Junie B. Jones” series continues to be a staple in children’s literature, beloved by generations for its wit, charm, and the joy it brings to early childhood reading.
Publication Order of Don’t Make Me Smile Books
Don’t Make Me Smile
(1981)
My Mother Got Married
(1989)
Publication Order of Skinnybones Books
Skinnybones
(1982)
Almost Starring Skinnybones
(1988)
Publication Order of Geek Chronicles Books
Maxie, Rosie, and Earl- Partners In Grime
(1990)
Rosie Swanson
(1991)
Dear God, Help!!! Love, Earl
(1993)
Publication Order of Junie B. Jones Books
Junie B. Jones and theStupid Smelly Bus
(1992)
Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business
(1993)
Junie B. Jones and Her Big Fat Mouth
(1993)
Junie B. Jones and Some Sneaky Peeky Spying
(1994)
Junie B. Jones and the Yucky Blucky Fruitcake
(1995)
Junie B. Jones and That Meanie Jim’s Birthday
(1996)
Junie B. Jones Loves Handsome Warren
(1996)
Junie B. Jones Has a Monster Under Her Bed
(1997)
Junie B. Jones Is a Party Animal
(1997)
Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook
(1997)
Junie B. Jones Smells Something Fishy
(1998)
Junie B. Jones Is a Beauty Shop Guy
(1998)
Junie B. Jones Isa Flower Girl
(1999)
Junie B. Jones and the Mushy Gushy Valentime
(1999)
Junie B. Jones Has a Peep in Her Pocket
(2000)
Junie B. Jones Is Captain Field Day
(2001)
Junie B. Jones Is a Graduation Girl
(2001)
Turkeys We Have Loved and Eaten
(2012)
Publication Order of Junie B., First Grader Books
Junie B., First Grader (at Last!)
(2001)
Boss of Lunch
(2002)
Toothless Wonder
(2002)
Cheater Pants
(2003)
One-Man Band
(2003)
Shipwrecked
(2004)
Boo…and I Mean it!
(2004)
Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!
(2005)
Aloha-ha-ha!
(2006)
Dumb Bunny
(2007)
Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School
(2009)
Turkeys We Have Loved and Eaten (and Other Thankful Stuff)
(2012)
Publication Order of Junie B. Jones Non-Fiction Books
Top-Secret Personal Beeswax
(2003)
Junie B.’s These Puzzles Hurt My Brain! Book
(2011)
Junie B. My Valentime
(2013)
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
Operation
(1982)
Beanpole
(1983)
Buddies
(1985)
The Kid in the Red Jacket
(1987)
Mick Harte Was Here
(1995)
Psssst!It’s Me…the Bogeyman
(1998)
The Graduation of Jake Moon
(2000)
Publication Order of Short Story Collections
Funnyman and Other Plays
(1990)
Publication Order of Picture Books
Ma! There’s Nothing to Do Here!: A Word from Your Baby-in-Waiting
