Francine Pascal, the beloved author behind the iconic Sweet Valley High book series, has passed away at the age of 92. Her agent, Amy Bekower, confirmed the news to the BBC, revealing that Pascal died on Sunday after battling lymphoma in a New York hospital.
Pascal’s daughter, Laurie Wenk-Pascal, also confirmed her mother’s passing to the New York Times. The author’s popular series, which followed the lives of identical twins Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield in the fictional town of Sweet Valley, captured the hearts of readers around the world with its tales of teen romance, friendship, and sibling rivalry.
The first book in the Sweet Valley High series was published in 1983, with a total of 180 books released over the next two decades. The success of the series led to several spin-offs, including Sweet Valley Twins and Sweet Valley University, as well as translations into 27 languages and millions of copies sold worldwide.
In addition to her work on Sweet Valley High, Pascal co-wrote for the soap opera The Young Marrieds in the 1960s with her husband, John Pascal. She also wrote numerous other young adult and adult novels throughout her career, showcasing her talent and versatility as a writer.
Pascal’s impact on the literary world is undeniable, and her legacy will continue to live on through the stories she shared with readers of all ages. Her contributions to the world of literature will be remembered and cherished by fans for years to come.
