Bill Martin, Jr ; pictures Eric Carle

Bill Martin Jr. (1916-2004) was an American educator, publishing executive, and prolific author of over 300 children's books, including the classic Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? illustrated by Eric Carle. A Kansas native, he earned degrees in early childhood education from Northwestern University, worked as a teacher and principal, and developed literature-based reading programs after moving to New York City in 1961. His rhythmic, singsong style aimed to foster a love of reading in children, drawing from his own late start as a reader.