This month marks the 50th anniversary of the debut of “Clifford the Big Red Dog,” a beloved character who has captured the hearts of millions. With over 126 million books in print across 13 languages and a long-running animated series on PBS Kids, Clifford’s popularity is undeniable. In an interview, Norman Bridwell, the creative force behind the colossal canine, shared insights into his remarkable career and the inspiration behind his iconic creation.
Montage of Clifford images, including the original book art and Norman Bridwell
The magic of Clifford lies in his extraordinary size and the relatable situations he finds himself in. Bridwell, the author and illustrator, describes his creation as a loving, loyal dog who always tries to do the right thing. However, his immense size often leads to accidental mishaps, a theme that resonates deeply with young readers who make mistakes and seek forgiveness. Bridwell’s own experiences with clumsiness and being the last picked for sports teams seem to have informed Clifford’s character, making him an endearing and sympathetic figure. This ability to connect with children through humor and empathy is a hallmark of Bridwell’s storytelling.
The genesis of Clifford began as an art sample when Bridwell was seeking illustration work. Despite initial rejections, an editor’s suggestion to pair the artwork with a story sparked the creation of “Clifford the Big Red Dog.” The book, originally priced at 35 cents, took two years to earn out Bridwell’s advance. While the first book flowed easily, subsequent Clifford adventures presented more challenges. Bridwell’s publisher encouraged him to focus on entertaining children rather than overtly delivering messages, a directive that shaped the lighthearted and humorous tone of the series.
Bridwell’s creative process involves sketching out ideas in thumbnail form before moving to the full drawings, with the text often complementing the visuals in an amusing way that allows children to interpret the action themselves. His studio, though described as cluttered, is a space where he continues to create, equipped with the essentials: a desk, a telephone, an 11-by-14-inch pad, and a pencil. The enduring success of Clifford is evident in the vast array of merchandise available, from plush toys to stationery.
Norman Bridwell with his daughter, Emily Elizabeth, around 1964
Bridwell’s childhood in Kokomo, Indiana, provided a quiet environment that fostered his imagination. He spent his days creating stories and drawings, a passion that persisted despite not excelling in other areas. His high school shop teacher even redirected him to drawing when he proved too clumsy with tools. After attending art school, Bridwell moved to New York City, where he gained valuable experience in commercial art, creating cartoons for filmstrips and slides for various companies. This background proved instrumental in developing his unique style of visual storytelling and injecting humor into his work. He found immense satisfaction when children began writing to him, acknowledging his work and making him feel noticed.
The evolution of Clifford’s books, from their original black-and-red, landscape orientation to the full-color, square format, was a strategic decision to improve bookstore display. Bridwell, always focused on the story’s message and accessibility for children, readily embraced these changes, prioritizing clarity and engagement over artistic rigidity.
Clifford 50th Anniversary Logo
Bridwell’s artistic journey highlights the power of persistence, imagination, and a deep understanding of a child’s perspective. His ability to create a character as large and lovable as Clifford, whose adventures emphasize kindness, forgiveness, and unconditional love, has cemented his legacy in children’s literature. The enduring appeal of Clifford the Big Red Dog is a testament to Bridwell’s talent and his innate ability to connect with young readers through stories that are both entertaining and meaningful. As his beloved character continues to inspire and delight, Norman Bridwell’s contribution to the world of children’s books remains immeasurable.
The success of the Clifford books is also reflected in their adaptation into various media, including a popular animated series. The series, currently in its 12th season on PBS Kids, brings Clifford’s adventures to life for a new generation. Bridwell’s knack for creating pitch-perfect humor for young children is evident in both the books and the television show, ensuring that Clifford remains a relevant and cherished character.
Bridwell’s personal life is as warm as his creation. He lives with his wife, Norma, in a farmhouse on Martha’s Vineyard, where the doors and shutters are painted red in honor of Clifford. Their two children, Emily Elizabeth (who inspired Clifford’s owner) and Tim, and three grandchildren, have all been touched by his creative spirit. Bridwell’s humility and kindness, much like Clifford’s, shine through in his interactions. He often expresses gratitude for his success, attributing it to good fortune rather than solely his own merit.
His favorite Clifford book is “Clifford and the Grouchy Neighbors,” a story that touches upon the common experience of dealing with difficult neighbors, a theme relatable to many children. This choice further illustrates Bridwell’s ability to draw from everyday life to create engaging narratives.
Original cover art for Clifford the Big Red Dog
The visual storytelling that began in Bridwell’s childhood continues to resonate. Even as a child, he transformed plain paper into worlds filled with characters and adventures. This innate talent, nurtured through art school and early experiences in commercial art, ultimately led to the creation of a character who has become a household name. Bridwell’s journey from aspiring illustrator to beloved children’s author is an inspiration, demonstrating the profound impact that dedication and a touch of magic can have. His work encourages children to embrace their mistakes, value forgiveness, and experience the joy of unconditional love, all through the adventures of a very big, very red dog.
art of racing in the rain novel
Bridwell’s approach to illustration and storytelling emphasizes clarity and emotional resonance. He believes that the purpose of his drawings is to convey the essence of the story, and he is open to feedback on how best to achieve this. This collaborative spirit, combined with his intrinsic talent, has led to the creation of timeless stories that continue to be cherished by generations of readers. The simple yet profound messages embedded within the Clifford books offer valuable lessons for children, fostering empathy, understanding, and a positive outlook on life.
Bridwell’s dedication to his craft is evident in his consistent output and the enduring popularity of his creations. The Clifford books serve as a reminder of the power of simple, heartfelt stories to entertain, educate, and inspire. Norman Bridwell’s legacy is not just in the millions of books sold, but in the countless children whose lives have been enriched by the gentle giant and the valuable life lessons he embodies.
References
- Bridwell, N. (2013, February 5). Interview by G. Maccarone. School Library Journal.
- Clifford the Big Red Dog [Wikipedia].
- PBS Kids Clifford.
