Let's make this birthday one to remember.

81 years old (Born on February 13, 1944)

Happy birthday to the ever-inspiring Walter Wangerin Jr.! May your day be filled with more joy than Chauntecleer had protecting his coop from Wyrm. We're grateful that your storytelling skills haven't emptied like "The Manger," but rather keep lighting our imaginations brighter each year.

From bringing children's wonder alive in "Mary's First Christmas," to taking us through trials and triumphs in the memorable saga of heroes like those found within "The Book of Sorrows," your compelling narratives have enchanted readers young and old alike. You're not just aging gracefully—you've mastered timelessness itself!

Here's wishing you endless inspiration—and cake!