The creator of “Clifford the Big Red Dog,” Norman Bridwell, has died. CNN reports that Bridwell died Dec. 12 in Martha’s Vineyard, Mass. He was 86.

The “Clifford” books have sold millions of copies in 13 languages, and formed the basis of a popular PBS Kids series of the same name, the story notes. The books and TV show feature a giant dog whose curiosity sometimes sparks trouble for him and his friend Emily Elizabeth.

“Norman Bridwell’s books about Clifford, childhood’s most lovable dog, could only have been written by a gentle man with a great sense of humor,” Scholastic Chairman and CEO Dick Robinson said.

The original story, about a tiny dog who grows into a giant after Emily Elizabeth cares for him, was rejected by nine publishers before Scholastic bought it, the article notes. Bridwell is survived by his wife, Norma, his daughter Emily Elizabeth (for whom the books’ character was named), his son Timothy and three grandchildren.

Norman Bridwell and Clifford