Ed Young (illustrator)

Ed Young (born 1931 in Tientsin, China) is a Caldecott Medal-winning Chinese-American illustrator and author of children's books. He is known for his innovative use of collage, pastels, and other artistic techniques to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant artwork. Young’s work often incorporates elements of Chinese art and philosophy, reflecting his cultural heritage.

He emigrated to the United States in 1951 to study architecture but soon transitioned to art, attending the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. His early work included illustrations for textbooks, but he soon focused on children's literature.

Young has illustrated over 80 books, many of which are retellings of traditional folktales and myths from diverse cultures. He won the Caldecott Medal in 1990 for Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China and has received two Caldecott Honors, for The Emperor and the Kite in 1968 and Seven Blind Mice in 1993.

His illustrations often explore themes of identity, family, and cultural understanding. Young emphasizes the importance of visual storytelling and believes that art can communicate powerful messages to children. He resides in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York.