In 1957, Harper published its first I Can Read title, Little Bear, written by Else Holmelund Minarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendak. Large type, simple vocabulary, chapter-like divisions, and decorative pictures made Little Bear perfect for emerging readers
Arnold Lobel (1933–1987) was the award-winning author and illustrator of many beloved children’s books, including the classic I Can Read books about Frog and Toad, and the Caldecott Medal–winning Fables.