While I don’t know exactly how many books were published in 1950, I do know which books created a stir among readers across the country.
Most notable is the classic, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis. This novel was the first in The Chronicles of Narnia series and remains popular among readers young and old. While not Lewis’ first published work, it’s certainly one of his most popular, gaining even more notoriety with the 2005 blockbuster film adaptation. In the 72 years since its debut, the novel has sold 100 million copies around the world.
Beverly Cleary wrote more than 30 beloved books during her life, but the year 1950 brought the publication of her first novel, Henry Huggins. This book was the first of many detailing the adventures of Henry and his friends, including Ramona Quimby, who went on to have several novels about her own adventures. Millions of middle schoolers curled up under the covers with a flashlight and a Beverly Cleary tale. In all, Cleary sold more than 90 million copies of her award-winning books.
Ray Bradbury is most often remembered for his groundbreaking novel, Fahrenheit 451, published in 1953. But a few years earlier, in 1950, his short story collection, The Martian Chronicles, was published as his first significant work. The story of an expedition to Mars and its exploration foretold America’s intense interest in the red planet. Similar to Farenheit 451, it’s set in a dystopian future. When the acclaimed author died in 2012, his work had been translated into more than 30 languages and inspired generations of fantasy and science fiction writers.
Want to read more content celebrating 1950? Learn more about life, culture, and more and join us as FamilySearch releases the 1950 US Census. Authors Beverly Cleary and Ray Bradbury were both enumerated in the 1950 census. Mrs. Cleary was listed as a literary writer living in Berkeley, Alameda County, California.
The enumerator in Los Angeles, California, noted that Ray Bradbury was a short story writer for a magazine in 1950.
