Betsy Cromer Byars

Betsy Cromer Byars (August 7, 1928 – February 26, 2020) was an American author of children's books. Her work is known for its blend of humor and empathy, exploring complex themes of family dynamics, adolescence, and personal growth. Among her most notable books is 'Summer of the Swans,' which won the Newbery Medal in 1971. Byars' writing career spanned over six decades, during which she published over sixty books, including novels, picture books, and works of nonfiction.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Summer Of The Swans

    This novel explores the emotional journey of a young girl named Sara Godfrey, who is grappling with the complexities of adolescence in a small town. The story reaches its climax during a summer when Sara's mentally challenged younger brother, Charlie, goes missing. As Sara embarks on a desperate search to find him, she confronts her own insecurities and learns valuable lessons about responsibility, family bonds, and self-acceptance. Through this experience, Sara undergoes a profound personal transformation, marking a pivotal summer that shapes her understanding of the world and her place within it.

    The 5934th Greatest Book of All Time