Picture a storyteller who turned toddler tantrums and childhood adventures into vibrant, laugh-out-loud books—meet Leslie Patricelli! This American author and illustrator has captured the hearts of young readers and parents worldwide with her playful board books and spirited middle-grade novels. From the diaper-clad Baby in Potty to the quirky friendships in the Rizzlerunk Club series, Patricelli’s work bursts with humor, bold colors, and relatable moments that make growing up feel like a grand adventure.
Born in Issaquah, Washington, near the serene Pine Lake, Patricelli’s creativity was sparked early by her pastel artist grandmother. Today, from her mountain home in Hailey, Idaho, she crafts stories that resonate with kids and grown-ups alike, proving that everyday moments can be magical.
The Making of Leslie Patricelli
Growing up, Patricelli was always doodling cartoons and scribbling stories, her imagination as wild as the Washington woods. Inspired by her grandmother’s artistry, she dreamed of a creative career, famously tweaking a middle-school career test to suggest graphic design over forestry! After studying communications at the University of Washington and honing her skills at Seattle’s School of Visual Concepts, she dove into advertising and illustration. Her seven-year stint at Microsoft, animating characters like Rover the Dog for Windows XP, sharpened her knack for expressive visuals. But it was motherhood—especially her son Beck’s toddler antics—that ignited her passion for children’s books, turning real-life moments into universal stories.
Leslie Patricelli’s Unforgettable Stories
Patricelli’s board books, starring her iconic bald, one-haired Baby, are toddler treasures. Potty (2010) hilariously captures the potty-training journey with pitch-perfect humor, earning praise for its relatable narrative and bold acrylic illustrations. Yummy Yucky (2003) explores opposites—think spaghetti (yummy!) versus worms (yucky!)—with a cheeky charm that has kids giggling. Her picture book Higher! Higher! (2009), a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor winner, transforms a simple swing ride into a soaring, word-sparse adventure, showcasing her knack for visual storytelling. For older readers, the Rizzlerunk Club: Best Buds Under Frogs (2018) dives into fourth-grade friendships, blending humor and heart with Patricelli’s own childhood memories, like the time she tried to create an ocean in her bedroom!
Her style is unmistakable: vibrant, rounded acrylic illustrations paired with minimal, punchy text. Patricelli draws inspiration from kids’ intense emotions and boundless curiosity, crafting stories that feel both intimate and universal. Whether it’s a toddler’s first Halloween in Boo! or the chaotic joy of the Patterson Puppies series, her books celebrate the messy, magical moments of youth.
Why Leslie Patricelli Matters
With over 7.7 million books in print, Patricelli has left a lasting mark on children’s literature. Her board books are a rite of passage for toddlers, helping them navigate big milestones like potty training or understanding opposites, all while making parents chuckle. Her ability to distill complex emotions into simple, vibrant stories has made her a global favorite, translated into multiple languages. For young readers, her middle-grade novels offer a safe space to explore friendship and imagination, reflecting the wild highs and lows of growing up. Patricelli’s work reminds us that the smallest moments—a giggle, a swing, a toot—can hold the biggest stories.
- Born: Issaquah, Washington
- Key Works: Potty, Yummy Yucky, Higher! Higher!, Rizzlerunk Club
- Awards: Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor for Higher! Higher!
- Fun Fact: Her son Beck inspired the Baby character!
About Leslie Patricelli
Snag Potty or Higher! Higher! and dive into Leslie Patricelli’s colorful, giggle-filled world—perfect for kids and the young at heart!