First Light, First Life

Paul Fleischman won a Newbery Medal for Joyful Noise and a Newbery Honor for Graven Images. He is also the author of young adult novels including Whirligig and The Mind’s Eye, and middle-grade novels including Bull Run and Seedfolks. He lives with his wife in northern California.

I am a painter and illustrator. Over the years I have exhibited many paintings and work in various other media (including cut paper, embroidery, quilts and bread). I have illustrated more than 25 books. I design fabric and make quilts. Although my work flows in many directions, all of the ideas and creations are connected. I like to make things, to read, to draw and to play outside. The work (and play) I do in one area inspires the work and play in others. Ideas beget ideas. I live in Seattle with my husband Joe Max Emminger and our cat Ruby. My cat and I both like looking at birds, although we have different intentions.