Betty Birney author page

Betty G. Birney biography

Betty G. Birney is an American author and screenwriter best known for the According to Humphrey series, which debuted in 2004 and celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024. The series follows the adventures of Humphrey, a classroom hamster, and includes thirteen main titles, eight Humphrey’s Tiny Tales books, and three According to Og the Frog spinoffs. The books have been translated into multiple languages and have garnered numerous awards, including seven state Children’s Choice Awards and a Christopher Award.

Birney was born in 1947 in St. Louis, Missouri, and wrote her first book at the age of seven. She graduated cum laude from Webster College (now Webster University) in 1969 with a B.A. in English. Before focusing on children’s literature, she worked in advertising in St. Louis and Chicago, and later at Disneyland and the Disney Studios in California. Her television writing credits include over 200 episodes for children’s programs such as Madeline, Doug, Bobby’s World, and Fraggle Rock. Her work in television has earned her an Emmy Award, three Humanitas Prizes, and a Writers Guild of America Award.

In addition to the Humphrey series, Birney has authored other children’s books, including The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs, The Princess and the Peabodys, Tyrannosaurus Tex, and Pie’s in the Oven. Her writing often draws inspiration from her own experiences and observations, aiming to engage young readers with relatable characters and situations.