In a touching farewell, author Rebecca Lane, known for her enchanting children’s books including the beloved series “Llama Llama,” passed away on September 3rd after a courageous 15-month battle with brain cancer. In a heartfelt gesture, she requested that instead of a traditional funeral service, her family and friends read to a child.
Rebecca’s passing left many, including myself, heartbroken. Her books were a staple in my home; whenever a new title was released, it was an automatic purchase. The “Llama Llama” stories resonated deeply with both me and my children, combining delightful illustrations with relatable themes for young readers. The overwhelming online tributes following her death echo the impact she had on countless families.
A Journey Through Her Career
Before becoming a full-time writer, Rebecca worked various jobs, including waitress, mail carrier, daycare assistant, and educator. Her first book, “Llama Llama Red Pajama,” was published in 2005 and quickly became a favorite, introducing us to the endearing character of Little Llama. Through Little Llama, we saw the real emotions of childhood, and Mama Llama was a figure of patience that many parents aspired to emulate.
Over her career, Rebecca authored ten “Llama Llama” titles, selling more than ten million copies collectively. Additionally, a Netflix series based on her works is in the pipeline, and a new book titled “Little Builder” is set to release in 2017.
Advocacy for Childhood Literacy
A passionate advocate for childhood literacy, Rebecca expressed in a 2013 Wall Street Journal article titled “The Power of Reading with Your Child” that literature fosters empathy and understanding. She wrote, “When we share a book with a child, we open up new worlds and perspectives, allowing them to connect with others.” This sentiment resonates deeply with anyone who understands the importance of nurturing young minds.
Personal Reflections
As a parent of twins, Rebecca’s stories were invaluable. Whether addressing sleep anxiety in “Llama Llama Red Pajama” or navigating the complexities of friendship in “Llama Llama and The Bully Goat,” her narratives offered guidance and comfort. Reading her books conveyed my love and understanding to my children, even when I struggled to find the right words myself.
Rebecca is survived by her partner, Tom Harris, and her two adult children. Tonight, I might revisit “Llama Llama Time to Share” with my now third-graders, humorously substituting “iPad” for “Fuzzy Llama.”
Her contributions to children’s literature and her dedication to promoting reading will be cherished by many, and she will be sorely missed.
Additional Resources
For those interested in exploring home insemination options, this resource from the CDC is excellent for understanding various methods. You might also want to check out the baby-making kits available at Make a Mom for a comprehensive approach. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out through our contact page.
Conclusion
In summary, Rebecca Lane’s legacy lives on through her beloved stories, which will continue to inspire and educate generations of children. Her unique request to read to a child instead of holding a funeral speaks volumes about her dedication to nurturing young minds.