Elisa Kleven is an American children's writer and illustrator of 30 books. [1] [2] She grew up in Los Angeles and currently resides near San Francisco. [3] [4] Her titles have been Booklist editor's choices, and PBS and Rainbow Book selections. [5]
Kleven has written several children's books including the Paper Princess series, [6] The Puddle Pail and The Lion and the Little Red Bird. Her first book was Ernst, a story about a creative crocodile named Ernst, whose tendency to wonder "what if" mirrors the author's own. [7]
In addition to writing her own books, Kleven has also illustrated books by other writers, such as Abuela by Arthur Dorros, [8] De Colores by Jose Luis Orozco, Angels Watching Over Me by Julia Durano, [9] and The Weaver by Thacher Hurd. [10]
Kleven is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. [11] She has been recognized nationally with awards and honors from the American Library Association, The New York Times , the Junior Library Guild, School Library Journal and the American Institute of Graphic Arts. [12]
Kirkus Reviews said of her children's book Welcome Home Mouse, "Every word and brush stroke is spot-on in this luminous celebration of creativity, conservation and compassion." [13] Kirkus Reviews noted of A Monster in the House "a wondrously silly tale ... expect laughter". [14] Time Out New York noted Welcome Home, Mouse's intricate illustrations. [15] Publishers Weekly said of A Monster in the House, “ Kleven honestly portrays the mixed feelings of affection and annoyance that siblings often have for one another." [16]
Booklist gave Kleven a starred review for her illustrations in Abuela saying, "Each illustration is a masterpiece of color, line, and form that will mesmerize youngsters. These are pages to be studied again and again...this book is a jewel." [17] Publishers Weekly said of The Dancing Deer and the Foolish Hunter, “Kleven's signature kaleidoscopic blend of color and texture and her respect for nature theme never disappoint.” [18]