CHRIS RASCHKA has written and/or illustrated over 30 books for children, including The Purple Balloon, called deceptively simple and beautifully direct by Kirkus Reviews. His other books include Good Sports, an ALA Notable Book; the 2006 Caldecott Medal winning title, The Hello, Goodbye Window; the Caldecott Honor Books Yo! Yes?; and Mysterious Thelonius.
2012 Randolph Caldecott Medal Winner Starred Review, School Library Journal, August 2011: Raschka's genius lies in capturing the essence of situations that are deeply felt by children. Starred Review, Horn Book, September/October 2011: a story that is noteworthy for both its artistry and its child appeal. Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews, December 1, 2011: Rarely, perhaps never, has so steep an emotional arc been drawn with such utter, winning simplicity.