Donald Sobol, author of beloved ‘Encyclopedia Brown’ children’s mystery series, dies at 87

MIAMI – Donald J. Sobol, author of the popular “Encyclopedia Brown” series of children’s mysteries, has died. He was 87.

Sobol’s son said Monday his father died in Miami from natural causes July 11.

Sobol’s series featured amateur sleuth Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown, who would unravel local mysteries.

It also featured Brown’s detective partner, tomboy Sally Kimball. Sobol’s son said Sally’s character was a strong role model for young girls, especially in 1963 when the series was first published.

The books became staples in classrooms and libraries. They were translated into 12 languages and sold millions of copies worldwide.

John Sobol said his father’s story was one of perseverance. His first Encyclopedia Brown book was turned down two-dozen times before it was finally published.