Bernard Waber (1921-2013) was a Philadelphia-born author and illustrator, best known for his Lyle the Crocodile books. His career began in 1962 with The House on East 88^th Street, in which a friendly crocodile named Lyle finds a home with the Primm family in New York City. Waber also published Ira Sleeps Over and Ira Says Goodbye, to great acclaim.

To celebrate Waber’s career and impact on children’s literature, the National Museum of American Jewish History, located at Independence Mall in Philadelphia, is hosting the first major exhibition of his work. Through November 1, you can see over 90 original illustrations and other items, including newly-discovered sketches!