John Newbery (publisher)

John Newbery was a pioneering English publisher and bookseller in the 18th century, best known for creating and popularizing children's books. In 1744, he published "A Little Pretty Pocket-Book," one of the first books specifically designed for children’s entertainment and education. His innovations helped establish the children’s book as a recognized genre, making reading more engaging and accessible for young readers. Newbery's work laid the foundation for modern children's publishing and literacy, and he is often considered the father of children's literature.