John Rocco

John Rocco is an acclaimed author and illustrator known for his work in children's literature and fantasy illustration. He has written and illustrated four celebrated picture books, including "Wolf! Wolf!," which won the Borders Original Voices Award, and "Blackout," a New York Times Best Book of the Year that earned a 2012 Caldecott Honor. His other works include "Moonpowder," featured in the Society of Illustrators' Original Art Show, and "Fu Finds the Way." Rocco also gained recognition for illustrating the covers of Rick Riordan's bestselling series, such as "Percy Jackson and the Olympians," "The Kane Chronicles," and "The Heroes of Olympus," as well as collaborating on Katherine and John Paterson's fantasy fairy tale, "The Flint Heart."

Before dedicating himself to children's books, Rocco built a distinguished career as an art director in the entertainment industry. He contributed to major projects, including serving as pre-production art director for DreamWorks' animated film "Shrek" and designing attractions for Disney's Epcot and DisneyQuest. His expertise extended to collaborations with CGI pioneer Robert Abel and contributions to museum exhibits, such as the Newseum in Washington, D.C., and Paul Allen's Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design and the School of Visual Arts in New York City, Rocco now resides in Los Angeles with his family.