Anna Dewdney — the author and illustrator behind the Llama Llama children's book series — died from brain cancer last week at the age of 50.
The first book in the series, Llama Llama Red Pajama, was released in 2005 and quickly captivated kids, parents, and educators with its effortless rhymes and familial warmth.
As news of Dewdney's death spread, tributes began to pop up on social media, like this one from Connecticut Rep. Joe Courtney.
ABC News journalist Jen King wore her tribute.
And the Ft. Worth Library Foundation shared a photo of Dewdney spending time with some local kids.
But the most touching tributes came from those who honored Dewdney's final request that — in lieu of a funeral service — people read to a child instead.
Of course, the books they chose to read were from the Llama Llama series.
There were moms doing the reading...
In your honor @AnnaDewdney ... We will miss you!
And dads...
Classroom teachers...
We read to k4 at IES today in memory of Anna Dewdney, Lama Lama and the Bully Goat. @dollyslibrary
Reading teachers...
Honoring author Anna Dewdney's wishes by reading Llama Llama books together ! #2020HowardWinn @saramarleygrimm
...and story-time readers.
All told...
...there were lots...
...and lots...
...and lots...
Reading Llama Llama books with my baby tonight #adyingwish #llamallama #AnnaDewdney
...of people...
Enjoyed a bedtime story last night in memory of and tribute to Anna Dewdney.
...reading to children...
...all to honor one incredible children's author gone too soon.
Want to honor Dewdney too? It's not too late. Just pick up a book and read with a child (today and always).
