Remembering famed children’s author Betty Ren Wright

A tearful goodbye to well-known children author Betty Ren Wright-Frederiksen.

Betty Ren Wright is a name that any young girl, especially one that grew up in the 80’s, should instantly recognize. She wrote many middle- grade classics such as, The Dollhouse Murders, Ghosts Beneath our Feet, Christina’s Ghost, Crandall’s Castle, as well as many others. Her books are the ones that helped shape my love for reading, as well as my love for all things paranormal. While many books are cherished on my bookshelf, there are two that I have carried from childhood, holding a place of honor- The Doll house Murders and Ghosts Beneath our Feet. With torn pages, and the covers falling off from wear, those two books got me through childhood. No matter what was happening in my life, I always knew I could seek solace within the pages of her books.

Betty Ren Wright, often referred to as the ‘Mistress of Suspense’ captivated children with her 34 children’s chapter-books with ghosts, murder and suspense. While earning over 75 awards for her books, Betty Ren Wright’s success was apparent. Through her writing she was able to address many serious adolescent questions, while portraying fears and concerns, all with the reader gaining self-assurance and knowledge.  

With a rich career in writing, Betty Ren Wright, also wrote over 35 picture books while working over thirty years as a writer and children book editor, at Western Publishing. Betty Ren Wright also published adult fiction and short stories in magazines such as Seventeen, Young Miss, Redbook, Ladies’ Home Journal and Saturday Evening Post.,

While the list could continue on with all of her awards, and accomplishments, the one fact that holds dear, is the mark that she has forever left etched upon the hearts of her readers. Her love for writing, mystery, and ghosts will forever live on through her books, and hopefully through the many generations who have yet to experience the magic.