Mo Willems is an American author, illustrator, animator, and playwright. He is known for his children's books, particularly his Elephant and Piggie series, Knuffle Bunny, and the Pigeon series.
Born on February 11, 1968, in Des Plaines, Illinois
Studied at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts
Began his career as a writer and animator for Sesame Street
Published his first book, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, in 2003
Received three Caldecott Honors for his books, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! (2004), Leonardo the Terrible Monster (2006), and Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity (2008)
Author of celebrated children's books including The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham.
Author of popular children's books including The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Author of the Harry Potter series, which has become a cultural phenomenon.
A series of early reader books featuring two best friends, Elephant Gerald and Piggie. The books are known for their humor, simple text, and expressive illustrations.
A series of picture books featuring a persistent and opinionated pigeon who tries to get what he wants against all odds. The books are known for their humor and engaging illustrations.
A series of picture books about a young girl named Trixie and her stuffed animal, Knuffle Bunny. The books are known for their relatable storylines and unique blend of photography and illustration.
Mo Willems has stated that his experiences working on Sesame Street inspired him to become a children's book author. He was drawn to the idea of creating something that would make children laugh and help them learn.
Mo Willems' books are generally suitable for children ages 3-8, although many adults enjoy them as well.
The order of the Elephant and Piggie books is: Today I Will Fly!, My Friend is Sad, I am Invited to a Party!, There is a Bird on Your Head!, I Love My New Toy!, I Will Surprise My Friend!, Are You Ready to Play Outside?, Watch Me Throw the Ball!, Elephants Cannot Dance!, Pigs Make Me Sneeze!, I am Going!, Can I Play Too?, We Are in a Book!, I Broke My Trunk!, Should I Share My Ice Cream?, Happy Pig Day!, Listen to My Trumpet!, Let's Go for a Drive!, A Big Guy Took My Ball!, I'm a Frog!, and The Thank You Book.
The Pigeon books often have themes related to perseverance, persistence, and standing up for oneself. The books encourage children to be confident and to never give up on their goals.
Mo Willems' illustrations are known for their expressiveness, simplicity, and humor. He uses simple shapes and bold lines to create characters that are easy for children to recognize and relate to.