Lane Smith was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, grew up in Southern California, and graduated with a B.F.A. in Illustration from Pasadena’s Art Center College of Design. In 1984, he moved to New York City, where he created illustrations for The New York Times, Esquire, Time, Newsweek, Rolling Stone, and Ms. among others. His first children’s book, Halloween ABC, written by Eve Merriam, was published by Macmillan in 1987 and was followed by his classic collaborations with author Jon Scieszka: The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, an Original Art Silver Medal winner, and The Stinky Cheese Man, a Caldecott Honor Book (both Viking). Lane has also illustrated for writers as diverse as Bob Shea, George Saunders, Dr. Seuss, Roald Dahl, Judith Viorst, and Florence Parry Heide.
Working closely together, Lane and his wife, book designer Molly Leach, have pushed the boundaries of the modern children’s book in both design and content. Their offbeat humor and unusual point of view have led to the creation of many international bestsellers including John, Paul, George & Ben (Hyperion); Grandpa Green, a Caldecott Honor Book and an Original Art Silver Medal winner; and It’s a Book, which has been translated into twenty-five languages (both Roaring Brook).
Four of Lane’s books have been New York Times Best Illustrated Books, and in 2012 he was named a Carle Honor Artist for lifelong innovation in the field of children’s books. His website is: lanesmithbooks.com