Matthew Cordell author page

Matthew Cordell Biography

Matthew Cordell, born on September 11, 1975, is an American author and illustrator known for his captivating children’s books. He grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, where his passion for art and storytelling began to flourish. Cordell attended the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, where he honed his artistic skills and developed a deep appreciation for the power of visual storytelling.

After completing his education, Cordell embarked on a career as an illustrator, working on various projects for magazines, newspapers, and advertising agencies. However, it was his love for children’s literature that eventually led him to focus on creating illustrations for picture books.

Cordell’s illustration style is characterized by its warmth, simplicity, and ability to evoke emotions. He often uses watercolors and ink to bring his characters to life, employing a delicate balance of light and shadow to create depth and texture. His illustrations are known for their expressive and relatable characters, which resonate with both children and adults.

Cordell has illustrated numerous acclaimed children’s books, collaborating with various authors to create captivating stories. Some of his notable works include:

• Wolf in the Snow (2017): This wordless picture book tells the heartwarming story of a young girl who helps a lost wolf pup find its way home.
• King Alice (2018): Cordell’s illustrations bring to life the imaginative adventures of a young girl named Alice and her father as they create their own kingdom.
• Explorers (2019): In this picture book, Cordell collaborates with author Matthew Cordell to take readers on a journey through the wonders of the natural world.

Cordell’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. Some of his notable achievements include:

• Caldecott Medal for Wolf in the Snow (2018): This prestigious award recognizes the most distinguished American picture book for children.
• Charlotte Zolotow Award for King Alice (2019): This award honors outstanding writing in a picture book.
• Golden Kite Award for Explorers (2020): This award celebrates excellence in children’s literature.