Remembering Carolyn Beck

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Canadian children’s book author Carolyn Beck in the early morning on Tuesday, May 21, 2024.

Her first book, The Waiting Dog, and her second book, Buttercup’s Lovely Day, were a family collaboration as her sister, children’s book author-illustrator Andrea Beck, illustrated them. Wellington’s Rainy Day, One Hungry Heron, Dog Breath, and Richard was a Picker were among Carolyn’s other titles.

Carolyn’s book, That Squeak, illustrated by François Thisdale, was shortlisted for the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award in 2016. 

After winning a prize for her story “Petulia, the Petunia” in Grade 3, she knew she wanted to write, but it wasn’t until she grew up and had a family of her own that she truly pursued this career path.

Andrea describes her sister as a private person who was proud of her work as an author. Though Carolyn also had a career in the financial world as an accountant, it was her children’s book work that gave her the greatest pleasure.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends. A gathering will be hosted on Saturday, May 25th at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre (375 Mt Pleasant Road, Toronto) from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. A private interment will follow the gathering.