Homeschooling Hero: Dav Pilkey

by Christina Yeager

David Pilkey is the illustrator and author of the famous children literature book series “Captain Underpants.” Dav was born to David Pilkey Sr. and Barbara in Cleveland, Ohio. He and his older sister Cindy attended an elementary school in North Ridgeville, OH. Unfortunately, Pikey struggled with ADHD and dyslexia. Homeschooling became essential to his his education. 
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Author of "Captain Underpants" was homeschooled!

​Homeschooling 
After being diagnosed with the ADHD and dyslexia, Pilkey had a hard time at school. He spent most of his time sitting at a desk in the school hallway. This is where he developed the Captain Underpants character. Due to a change in his physical and mental health, Barbara and David Pilkey Sr. decided to homeschool Dav. 

Accomplishments
David is one of the most recognized authors and illustrators to kids born in the 90's and has  received numerous awards for his achievements:

• The National Written and Illustrated by… was awarded to Dav for the masterpiece “World War Won” for students’ ages 14-19 category in 1986.
• Caldecott Honor Award for "The Paperboy" in 1997.
• California Young Reader Medal for "Dog Breath!: The Horrible Trouble With Hally Tosis" in 1998. 
• Disney Adventure Kid’s Choice Award for the famous "Captain Underpants" in 2007.   
• Milner Award for being the favorite book author among children.  

Series Books

• A few Pilkay popular book series':
• Dragon TV Series (1990-1994)
• Dumb Bunnies (1994-1997)
• Captain Underpants (1997-2015)
• Captain Underpants spin-offs (2002-2018)
• Rocky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot (2000-2006)
• Big Dog and Little Dog (1997-1999)
• The Silly Gooses (1998) 

There are far too many to name! Mr. Pilkey sure can write a series!

Currently
Today, Pilkey is living the dream with his wife, Sayuri, in Washington near Seattle. Though he suffered from various downfalls in his life including the ADHD and then his father’s death, Pilkey still managed to keep himself together. In an interview, Pilkey said that he will continue writing books to put smiles on children's faces. Let's hope he does!
     

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