Jean Marzollo, the award-winning author of the best-selling I Spy series, passed away on April 10, 2018. She was 75 years old.
Jean had a long history with Scholastic; she joined the Company in 1972 as editor of Let’s Find Out, our monthly classroom magazine for kindergartners, and remained in that role for two decades. She was also a prolific author, with more than 150 titles to her name. And of course, most of us know Jean as the creator of one of Scholastic’s most iconic brands: I Spy.
Scholastic published the first I Spy book in 1992, quickly followed by seven more, which in turn inspired multiple spin-offs, such as easy readers, board books, sticker books, board games, and interactive games for Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, and Leapster. It was also the inspiration for a television show on HBO Kids. The I Spy brand continues to be a favorite of children of all ages.
Writing for and working with children was truly one of Jean’s great passions in life. We’re grateful to Jean for sharing her many creative gifts with children everywhere.
