Patricia Polacco (Author, Illustrator)

Patricia Polacco is an American children's author and illustrator born in 1944 who has written and illustrated over 115 books, often incorporating elements of her own family history and heritage. She struggled with dyslexia throughout her childhood but found expression through art, eventually earning a Ph.D. in Art History and beginning her literary career at age 41. Her works, including 'Thank You, Mr. Falker' and 'The Keeping Quilt,' frequently explore themes of cultural heritage, intergenerational connections, and overcoming learning disabilities.