We were very saddened to hear about Jerry Pinkney’s sudden passing yesterday at the age of 81.

He was a Philadelphian by birth and spoke at the Free Library numerous times to share his beautiful books and art. So much so that on July 19, 2016, Mayor Jim Kenney declared it to be Jerry Pinkney Day!

As a storyteller and artist, Pinkney added so much joy and beauty to the world. His illustrations, created in layered watercolors—at times with a light pencil sketch showing underneath—are full of light, warmth, and vibrancy. His books will continue to delight and inform readers to years come, and will remain an important and unforgettable part of children’s literature.

Here’s a look at his works, available in our catalog, throughout the decades: 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s to the present.

We are all better for having known Jerry Pinkney and his work. We send our sincere condolences to his family.