(Newswire.net — May 13, 2015) Singapore, Singapore — Todd Parr is an award-winning author and illustrator whose books have central themes of love, kindness, and “feeling good.” Parr’s work has been well received internationally and his books have been published in 14 languages. The author’s kind disposition goes beyond his professional career. He is involved with a variety of charities and organization including Habitat for Humanity, the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Books for Kids, and the ASPCA.
Despite being an accomplished author and illustrator with the Hachette Book Group, Parr admits, “I failed art class.” That is an ironic statement from an award-winning author and illustrator of more than 38 children’s books. In addition to his published work, Parr also creates short films for Sesame Street and has his own
Emmy-nominated show, Todd World. His work is fun, bright, and emanates a sense of friendliness that appeals to a young audience. Parr’s books have been referred to as, “cheerful, kindhearted, refreshing and reassuring.”
His friendly writing style and illustrations help kids understand that it’s ok to make mistakes and has earned the Hachette Book Group’s author critical acclaim. One review from Booklist for his most recent book, It’s Okay to Make Mistakes, states, “Readers are reassured that these common experiences (spilling milk, not knowing an answer, being shy) can happen to anyone, and they will receive positive messages about confidence and empathy.” Another of his books, The Peace Book, has been selected as the Pre-K Companion Book for Silicon Valley Reads 2015.
On his website, Parr shares some friendly insight for his young readers, “It’s okay to make mistakes sometimes. Everyone does- even grownups! That’s how we learn.” With his warm approach, Parr communicates with children in a way they can understand and relate to. In another review by Kirkus Reviews, he is commended for this style, “Parr encourages readers to see mistakes as opportunities with characteristic élan. In his ineffable fashion, Parr delivers a reassuring mashup that’s part Keith Haring and part Sesame Street.”
Parr’s work continues to be a warm presence in the published world, reminding young readers that learning is fun and that you don’t always have to color inside the lines. His lessons are simple, but also heartfelt and encouraging. Parr is a fresh reminder that simple sometimes really is better. Parr was a participant in the iCreate Conference hosted by Singapore American School. He engaged with the SAS Early Childhood Center and presented to K-2 classes.
If you would like to learn more about Todd Parr and his work, visit his website.
Image & quotes from Toddparr.com
About Singapore American School
Singapore American School (SAS) is an independent, non-profit, coeducational, college preparatory day school offering an American curriculum with an international perspective for students in preschool through grade 12. SAS has the largest Advanced Placement program outside of the United States, is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in the U.S., and offers the American High School Diploma at the senior level. Established in 1956, the school primarily serves the American and international expatriate communities of Singapore.