Pete Oswald

Oswald synthesizes his talents as an illustrator and production designer to create imaginative worlds across children's literature and animation. His work in the animation industry, notably as a character designer and production designer, includes acclaimed projects like "ParaNorman," "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa," and "The Angry Birds Movie." These endeavors highlight his ability to craft visually dynamic stories, whereas his children's books, such as the #1 New York Times bestseller "The Good Egg," emphasize storytelling that blends humor with moral lessons. Therefore, Oswald's multifaceted approach allows him to resonate with a diverse audience, including both film enthusiasts and young readers.\n\nHis literary collaborations, particularly with Jory John, showcase a series of engaging picture books like "The Bad Seed" and "The Smart Cookie," each reaching the New York Times bestseller list. Oswald’s artistic philosophy of omitting unnecessary detail and avoiding overly realistic illustrations enables a distinctive, whimsical style that invites readers to explore personal connections to the narrative. Meanwhile, his author debut "Hike" presents a nearly wordless tale that encourages personal interpretation and emotional engagement with nature, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering imagination and introspection among readers.\n\nBy creating work that spans various mediums, Oswald connects with an audience that values both the visual and narrative elements of storytelling. His projects not only entertain but also offer lessons in empathy and personal growth. His art show, “Pacific Abstract,” also reflects his passion for translating personal experiences into a visual language that resonates with viewers. This layered approach, evident in his successful books and animation projects, underscores his impact on both the animation industry and children's literature, making Oswald a significant figure in contemporary storytelling.