Children’s writer Paula Danziger, 59, best known as the author of The Amber Brown series and THE CAT ATE MY GYMSUIT, died yesterday from complications following a heart attack. Penguin notes in a statement, “Danziger has published over 30 books, with millions of copies in print. Known as a flamboyantly funny and deeply honest writer and speaker, Danziger’s books have won young reader medals in almost every state in the US and have been translated into dozens of languages. Danziger was especially known for her ability to connect with audiences spanning a large range, from beginning readers to young adults.”

President of Penguin Young Readers group Doug Whiteman says, “Paula
will long be remembered for the many hours she gave to aspiring writers and young editors as she tried to help bring along the next generation of
publishing talent. All of us at Penguin loved her dearly and will miss her humor, warmth and compassion.”

There’s nothing more depressing than losing the heroes from your childhood.