Simms Taback author page

Simms Taback biography

Simms Taback was an American author and illustrator known for his work in children’s literature. He studied at the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art. Taback worked as a graphic designer and illustrator, contributing to a variety of projects including designing the first McDonald’s Happy Meal box. He illustrated and wrote several picture books, often noted for their interactive elements and distinctive, colorful style.

Taback’s books include Joseph Had a Little Overcoat, which he both wrote and illustrated. This book received the Caldecott Medal in 2000. He also illustrated There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, which was named a Caldecott Honor Book in 1998. Over his career, Taback created more than 35 books for children, collaborating with various authors and publishers.

In addition to his work as an author and illustrator, Taback was a founding member of The Illustrators Guild, which later became part of the Graphic Artists Guild. He also taught at the School of Visual Arts and Syracuse University. Taback’s Joseph Had a Little Overcoat was published by Viking in 1999 and won the Caldecott Medal in 2000.