Before They Were Artists: Famous Illustrators As Kids: True Stories of Childhood Triumphs and Creative Inspiration for Children (Hardcover)

This vibrantly illustrated graphic novel anthology brings to life the childhood experiences of beloved artists and illustrators such as Wanda Gág, Maurice Sendak, and Jerry Pinkney!

What makes an artist? What sparks their imagination? Where do their creativity and unique style come from? Striking illustrations paired with small vignettes and anecdotes from the artists’ early lives help illuminate the hard work, triumphs, failures, and inspiration that forged their successful careers. Featuring legendary figures like Tove Jansson, Yuyi Morales, and Hayao Miyazaki, these stories capture the pivotal moments that predated their global fame.

Children will see themselves in these portraits and wonder if they, too, might have it in them to make art. A celebration of creativity, this collective graphic biography is sprinkled throughout with writing wisdom and inspiring quotes. It serves as both a historical record and a call to action for the next generation of creators to find their own unique voices.

Look for the companion book Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids. A must-have for classrooms, libraries, and every aspiring young illustrator's bookshelf!