Uri Shulevitz

Uri Shulevitz was a celebrated American author and illustrator of children's books, best known for his Caldecott Medal-winning work on "The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship," a retelling of an Eastern European fairy tale by Arthur Ransome. His career spanned decades, during which he produced numerous acclaimed picture books, including "The Treasure," "Snow," and "How I Learned Geography," all of which earned Caldecott Honors. Shulevitz also authored the instructional guide "Writing with Pictures: How to Write and Illustrate Children’s Books," sharing his expertise with aspiring creators.

Born in Warsaw, Poland, in 1935, Shulevitz developed a passion for drawing at an early age, which persisted throughout his life despite the upheavals of World War II. After fleeing Poland with his family, he lived in Paris and later Israel, where he worked various jobs while honing his artistic skills. His breakthrough came in 1963 with "The Moon in My Room," his first published book, which showcased his distinctive doodle-inspired illustration style. Shulevitz's works often explored themes of imagination, resilience, and cultural heritage, reflecting his own experiences as an immigrant and artist. He resided in New York City until his passing, leaving behind a legacy of timeless children's literature.