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May 02, 2025

Celebrating Margaret Wise Brown: Beloved Children's Author Honored With USPS Stamp Set

"In the great green room There was a telephone And a red balloon And a picture of..." is the opening page to one of the most iconic children's picture books of all time. 

Today the United States Postal Service released a commemorative stamp set honoring Goodnight Moon, the timeless bedtime story written by Margaret Wise Brown. For generations, Brown's picture books have captivated young readers and their families.  How many of us grew up listening to Goodnight Moon read to us at bedtime and then as we learned to read, read along? While Goodnight Moon remains her most iconic work, Brown's literally legacy encompasses a rich array of children’s books that continue to resonate with readers today. 

A Legacy of Storytelling

Born in Brooklyn in 1910, Margaret Wise Brown was a pioneering figure in children’s literature after earning her degree from Holland College in 1932, she studied at the Bank Street Experimental School in New York City, which emphasized the importance of writing for children about the real world and the "here and now.“ This philosophy deeply influenced her writing style, leading her to create stories that were both imaginative and grounded in everyday experiences. She wrote many children’s books and even more unpublished book drafts were discovered after her death at the age of 42 - some of which have since been published.

Brown’s collaborations with illustrators like Clement Hurd, Garth Williams and Leonard Weisgard resulted in classics such as The Runaway Bunny, The Fur Family, The Important Book and many others. Her ability to blend poetic language with relatable themes have made her books a staple in children’s literature. You may also recognize several Little Golden Books she authored during her career as well.

Honoring Goodnight Moon

Goodnight Moon was first published in 1947 and has become a quintessential bedtime story selling over 48 million copies worldwide. It’s soothing rhythm and comforting. Illustrations have made it a favorite for generations. The USPS commemorative stamp release serves as a testament to the book's enduring impact and Brown's significant contributions to children’s literature.

Clement Hurd

I know this set is all about honoring Goodnight Moon and Margaret Wise Brown, however, I would be remiss if I did not also give a shout out to Clement Hurd for his contribution to this wonderful book. His illustrations are just as much an iconic part of the book. For as much as we love reciting this, beloved nighttime story, it would not be the same without the work of Clement Hurd. His illustrations go hand-in-hand with the text in this iconic work of art (no pun intended). 

Step Into Goodnight Moon

Did you know you can explore the great green room of Goodnight Moon in person? The Rabbit hOle in Kansas City, Missouri offers the opportunity to do just that.  Take a walk through the museum as you explore more than 40 iconic children's picture books - many of which you will immediately recognize, along with a few new favorites waiting to be discovered.  When planning your trip, be sure to read through the books featured in the exhibit ahead of time.  Many are award-winning books and have been childhood favorites for generations.  Visit their website for more information, hours, current exhibits and specials.

Final Thoughts

Will you be picking up the new Margaret Wise Brown stamp set? It is such a lovely way to honor one of the most loved voices in children’s literature. If you’re feeling inspired to revisit some timeless picture books or to discover a few new favorites, be sure to explore our picture book collection here - the collection is filled with beautifully illustrated picture books that have stood the test of time. 

Happy Reading,

Wendy

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