A playful biography of artist and writer Edward Gorey is staged in three acts. “Act One: An Artist Is Born” introduces a precocious child who taught himself to read at age three and soon began crafting his own “deliciously sinister” tales. Unabashedly unusual, he had a unique sense of fashion that persisted into adulthood. “Act Two: Edward in the City” sees the artist residing in Manhattan, where he was a devotee of the New York City Ballet and worked as a book cover artist from an apartment crowded with cats. When he began writing and illustrating his own works, he persisted despite an initially lukewarm reception, slowly gathering a devoted following. He was disinterested in fame and attention, though, and eventually moved out of the city to “a squeaky, creaky, leaky fixer-upper” on Cape Cod, as detailed in “Act Three: At Home by the Sea.” While he enjoyed venturing out to work with actors in local theaters, at home he worked in peace, relishing his solitude (plus cats, of course), his eccentric collections, and his vast personal library, until his death. Vibrant, expressionistic acrylic illustrations are well suited to the narrative, which fondly depicts Gorey as a truly singular and exceptionally imaginative man. (Ages 5-9)

From an acclaimed author and illustrator team, here is a definitive picture book biography about a true original and creative genius: Edward Gorey.

Discover the unique childhood and life of the enigmatic and eccentric Edward Gorey whose artwork and books had a profound impact on creators such as Neil Gaiman, Lemony Snicket, and Tim Burton.

Even as a young boy, readers learn that Edward constantly forged his own path, passions, and pursuits never forsaking his individuality for fame.This brilliant picture book biography is paired with a whimsical art style that captures the unrelenting creativity Edward brought to his playfully macabre creations.