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For Better or For Worse

For Better or For Worse

By Lynn Johnston

Since its debut in 1979, "For Better or For Worse" has touched comic strip readers as few cartoons ever do. Cartoonist Lynn Johnston’s eye for detail and her uncanny sense of what real parents and children struggle with daily are a big part of her success. The world has watched the Patterson family grow up in real time, and to many readers, the Pattersons feel like family!

Parents and children alike will relate to the obstacles the Patterson family faces. Curfews, parent date nights, babysitting, pets, and distractions are all hurdles the Pattersons must overcome in order to enjoy each other as a family. They face the same obstacles that real life families do, which is what makes them so lovable.

Daily Daily
Sunday Sunday
Daily & Sunday Daily & Sunday
Digital Digital
Print Print
Strip Strip
Available in Color Available in Color
Family
Women

Editor's Picks

Two women discussing a homework plan while addressing a recent breakup. One woman expresses surprise that her friend is still hanging out with her ex, while the other reassures her about their friendship. The scene captures themes of teenage relationships and friendship dynamics. Comic strip featuring characters discussing a breakup. One character reflects on the differences between their life paths, with a humorous analogy about being a bug and a windshield. Themes of career choices and relationship dynamics are explored. A humorous comic strip featuring a woman expressing frustration about a missing ring, implying a misunderstanding in a conversation about relationships. She reacts in disbelief about asking someone if they are dating, while a male character in another car comments on her behavior, questioning if she is talking to herself. The scene captures a moment of comedic confusion and social interaction. Comic strip featuring a humorous dialogue between a woman and her dog, Edgar, as they prepare for a walk. The woman is holding a leash, while the dog expresses excitement. The scene captures the playful dynamic between pet and owner. A comic strip depicting a mother sorting through a pile of greeting cards while her daughter watches. The mother expresses frustration with the cards, and the daughter excitedly realizes they are all for them. The scene conveys themes of family, friendship, and the joy of receiving cards. A comic strip from

About Lynn Johnston

An Ontario, Canada, native, Lynn Johnston grew up in a home filled with musical and artistic talent. After attending the Vancouver School of Art, she worked in an animation studio, then at McMaster University as a medical illustrator. After five years, Johnston continued to freelance for the hospital, mostly for the obstetrics department—the head of which encouraged her to draw cartoons for his patients. Some of these were made into a book. Two more small cartoon books on life with babies and young children followed and, in 1978, these three books came to the attention of Universal Press Syndicate (now Andrews McMeel Syndication). "For Better or For Worse" hit the papers in 1979 and has become one of the most beloved comic strips of all time.

Smiling woman with short blonde hair and glasses, wearing a purple sweater, resting her chin on her hand against a white background.

Cast

Illustration of a woman with blonde hair in a bun, wearing a pink shirt and blue pants, bending forward with a curious expression.

Elly

Elly Patterson juggles the duties of being a mom and wife and a willing ear to friends. While sometimes wishing for a few quiet minutes alone, she thrives on being involved and active and is the cornerstone of the family. The story revolves around her interactions with others and her attempt at keeping things running.

Cartoon character with brown hair and glasses wearing a red t-shirt and beige pants, standing against a white circular background.

John

John Patterson is Elly's devoted and steadfast counterpart. His work as a dentist comes second only to his family. John is an innovator and instigator and his strength of character and calm demeanor keep the family "on track.” He dotes on baby Elizabeth and enjoys watching Michael develop his own personality.

Illustration of a young man with short, wavy brown hair, wearing a yellow and white striped shirt with a blue stripe, looking thoughtfully to the side against a white background.

Michael

School, friends, homework, TV, chores, family, toys, pets ... there aren't enough hours in a day! Michael is energetic, creative, insatiably curious, and sometimes overly dramatic. He thinks grown-ups just don't understand kids at all. Though he often broods that Elizabeth is the favorite, he is a protective older brother.

Illustration of a girl with long blonde hair wearing a glittery gold sweater, set against a circular white background.

Elizabeth

Despite Michael's jealousy, Lizzie's life is not all naps and games. Just getting from point A to point B can be a challenge—especially when there are stairs! Liz is working every minute of the day, soaking up her surroundings. New words, new expressions, and new actions are all worth testing out.