Barbara Park, the beloved author of the classic "Junie B. Jones" book series, has died.
Park passed away Friday at age 66 after a long battle with ovarian cancer, according to a statement released Sunday by her publisher, Random House. She had lived in Scottsdale, Ariz., with her husband. (Via WLS-TV)
Park began writing about little Junie B. Jones in the early '90s, penning dozens of books about the independent, funny Junie B. — including titles like "Junie B. Jones and Her Big Fat Mouth." (Via JunieBJones.com)
The New York Times best-selling series has sold more than 55 million copies in North America alone. Park published more than 50 works throughout her career. She also received numerous awards.
Park once said of writing children's books, "I happen to think that a book is of extraordinary value if it gives the reader nothing more than a smile or two." (Via WLS-TV)
The author also helped found Sisters in Survival, a charity for women suffering from ovarian cancer.
Park is survived by her family, including her husband, two sons and grandchildren.
