Mrs. Pine Takes a Trip

Leonard Kessler created books for children for more than 55 years, starting in the 1950s. He illustrated more than 200 books, many which he also wrote. Three of Leonard Kessler’s books were named on the NEW YORK TIMES Ten Best Illustrated Books for Children. Leonard collaborated on forty books for young children with his wife Ethel. Both of the Kesslers were graduates of Carnegie Mellon University. He lived for many years in Rockland County, New York, and now lives in Sarasota, Florida. Leonard has two grown children and four grown grandchildren.

I took this photo of Leonard the first time I met him, his kids had invited me to his 80th birthday party as a surprise. I had just pulled up to his house in my rental car and when he realized who I was, he ran back into his house to get this hat I’d sent him. I snapped one photo with my trusty disposable camera, it was in 2000 before cell phones had them, and I got this one-in-a-million shot of my favorite author saluting and smiling at me. Last year, in 2020, for his 100th birthday I sent him another ball cap that said “I AM MR. PINE,” with a picture of Mr. Pine embroidered on it. Thanks for all the great books Leonardo Pine!