Jillian Tamaki author page

Jillian Tamaki biography

Jillian Tamaki is a Canadian illustrator and writer known for her work in children’s and young adult literature. She has collaborated with her cousin, Mariko Tamaki, on several graphic novels. Their first joint project, Skim, was published in 2008 by Groundwood Books. The book received critical attention for its exploration of adolescence and identity.

Tamaki and Mariko Tamaki continued their partnership with the graphic novel This One Summer, published by First Second Books in 2014. The book was recognised for its nuanced portrayal of two friends during a pivotal summer and was awarded the Caldecott Honor and the Printz Honor in 2015.

In addition to her collaborative work, Jillian Tamaki has created solo projects. Her book SuperMutant Magic Academy was published by Drawn & Quarterly in 2015. She has also written and illustrated They Say Blue, a picture book published by Abrams Books for Young Readers in 2018.

Jillian Tamaki’s illustrations have appeared in various publications, and she has contributed to anthologies and magazines. Her work is recognised for its distinctive style and thoughtful approach to storytelling. In 2018, They Say Blue was longlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal.